Walter Ellaschuk spent his life helping young people. The long-time Shuswap teacher and principal died in 1999 at the age of 81, but his help for young people will go on in perpetuity thanks to a gift from Walter’s wife, Vera.
Walter Ellaschuk began his teaching career in Golden but, came to North Shuswap School in 1958. The school achieved senior secondary status under his principalship and, in 1961 he officiated at the first graduating class.
Later Mr. Ellaschuk served 15 years as principal of Eagle River Secondary School in Sicamous before retiring in 1972. In retirement, he and his wife returned to the North Shuswap where he continued his contribution to education, serving as a school trustee in the 1980s.
In addition to academics, Walter was a keen sportsman, active in cycling, tennis, badminton, baseball and more. He also passed on his skill in these areas, particularly as a coach of basketball and baseball.
In setting up the Walter Ellaschuk bursary fund, Vera said: “this is what he would have wanted. He had no use for ritual, but he did value education. This is emblematic of his life, his ideals. He was always dedicated to helping youth get ahead.”
