Union High School in Graaff-Reinet, South Africa, shared that their beloved educator Bruce Maree passed away on Saturday, December 31, 2022. Maree had a long and distinguished career at Union High School and has been an educator there for 41 years. He was appointed to the school in 1970 and later promoted to Head of Department in 1980.
The Union High School Development Trust was established in 1978 to promote the welfare of Union High School and Union Preparatory School for all future generations of scholars attending these schools.
Maree taught various subjects, including Mathematics, accounting, and other commercial issues. In addition to his duties as a teacher, Maree had a significant impact on the overall development of the school. He was actively involved in various cultural and sporting activities, including coaching cricket, rugby, and swimming.
Maree’s most notable contributions to Union High School were the establishment of the Salisbury Cathedral School and the Union High School exchange program, which has lasted for almost 30 years. This exchange program provided numerous opportunities from both schools for children to learn and grow together.
News of Maree’s passing went viral on the internet, and many people shared their opinions. A former student of Maree’s said, “I can’t believe Maree is gone. He is an important part of our community and will be deeply missed. He always had time for his students and was always willing to go the extra mile to help them succeed. He was truly one of a kind.”
A colleague of Maree’s at Union High School said, “Maree was not just a teacher; he was a mentor and a friend to many of us. He had a way of making everyone feel welcome and valued, no matter who they were. His passing is a huge loss for our school and our town.”
A current student at Union High School said, “I only had the pleasure of knowing Maree for a few years, but in that time, he made a lasting impact on me. He was always patient and understanding, and he truly cared about the well-being and success of his students. We were lucky to have him in our lives.”
Maree’s dedication to the education of his students and the development of Union High School will not be forgotten. His kindness, hard work, and tireless efforts will be greatly missed by all who know him.
