Tribute

Andrew George Ditto—known to all as “George”—passed away on November 17, 2023. George is survived by and missed so very much by his life partner, Jerri-Lynn, his sons, John and Rusk, his granddaughter, Sophia, his sisters, Pauline Herberg and Geraldine Cawsey, and his brother-in-law, Emery Cawsey.

George was born in Stettler, Alberta (August 4, 1944), and while he enjoyed growing up and working with his parents, John and Inez, on the family farm, his parents were adamant that George would not be a farmer, but would attend university and seek another profession.

Following his parents’ advice, George attended the University of Calgary, majoring in Mathematics and Economics, completing both his B.A. and B.Ed initially; he later went on to complete his MEd., focusing his research on “Assessment in Education”.

As a teacher in the Calgary Board of Education, George taught students in both Middle School and High School. Always a passionate mathematician, he encouraged students to “fall in love” with numbers. His work outside of the classroom included work with the NCTM (National Council of Teachers of Mathematics), as well as serving as a consultant to Holt Canada in the production of mathematics textbooks for high school students. George was especially excited about the International Baccalaureate Programme, helping to introduce it as the 1B Diploma Coordinator at the CBE high school, Sir Winston Churchill.

George sought always to grow and learn as an educator, seeking to create quality learning scenarios and opportunities for both students and teachers. He was able to do so, holding a variety of positions: Assistant Principal, Principal, Math Supervisor for the CBE, Head of Assessment for the CBE, and finally, perhaps his most challenging and exciting, as Director of the newly created Chinook College. George collaborated with Departments of Education in countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, South Korea, China, and others, consulting, reviewing infrastructures, and determining opportunities for students from other countries to study in the Calgary system.

Even in retirement, George continued to work in the international world of education, returning to his love of the 1B programme of studies, instructing in the American International School of Cairo, first as a teacher of mathematics, and then working with students and teachers as Assistant Principal and Principal. Next came Nairobi, Kenya, where once again, George served as a leader, assuming the Headship of the Aga Khan High School. His commitment and energy, genuine love for learning, and working with students from diverse backgrounds were always his priorities.

George was also able to achieve another priority: that of travel. He and Jerri-Lynn were able to visit and explore countries in northern and sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, and Europe. His interest in different cultures, combined with his deep love of the environment and wildlife were always part of any trip itinerary.

Unfortunately, an aortic aneurism caused George to retire—again—and return to Canada, with their rescue pets, three cats, and two dogs, to his and Jerri-Lynn’s cottage in the Gulf Islands, where they were able to complete long overdue projects.

The photo of George was taken while travelling in Botswana near the Okavango Delta. He is pictured, smiling, with his copy of “The Lonely Planet” open to the next adventure. He would remind many, “Never stop wondering; Never stop wandering.”

He never did.

Should friends and family wish to honour George, instead of sending gifts or flowers, contributions may be made to The Alzheimer’s Society of Canada in his name.