Shock death – Year 9 student Gabby with classmates at Hillcrest Christian College light a cand

By Kelly Yates
A SCHOOL community is in shock, after the sudden death of a teacher over the weekend.
John Marshall, a technology teacher at Hillcrest Christian College, died after suffering a heart attack last Sunday.
A remembrance memorial was set up in the teacher’s honour this week, lined with candles, letters, poems and photos from the staff and students.
The students at the Clyde North school were informed of the loss of their teacher on Monday morning, and counselling sessions with the teachers were offered.
Head of senior school Geoff Grace told the News he was shocked to receive the call about the death of his 64-year-old colleague.
He said the school community had come together in a positive way to show support.
“He was like a grandpa figure to the students and they just adored him,” Mr Grace said.
According to Mr Grace, this is the first time in the 11 years he has been at the school they have had to deal with the sudden loss of a teacher.
Mr Marshall taught woodwork, materials and design, and systems to the senior school students.
The teacher from Narre Warren had been at Hillcrest Christian College for the past 18 months.
He has been described as a friendly, open, warm and generous man.
Year 12 student Laura said Mr Marshall was not only a teacher to the students but also a friend.
“When he’d walk past you in the school yard he would always stop to have a chat,” she said.
“He was extremely passionate about teaching and the students he taught.”
Principal Daniel Pampuch said Mr Marshall was a much-loved member of the Hillcrest community. He said Mr Marshall spent his final years teaching children and instilling them with a love of learning and of God.
The students are planning to hold a free dress day in Mr Marshall’s honour to raise money to purchase a permanent memorial for the school or his grieving family.
A chapel service was held yesterday (Wednesday) at the school.