By Colleen Dane - Comox Valley Record
Published: November 12, 2009 6:00 PM

Every Wednesday, Ron Bannerman, Richard Kitto and other volunteers would meet at the No. 6 Mine Park at 10 a.m.

They’d work for an hour — mowing grass, raking leaves, cleaning vandalism — before breaking for a cookie or a doughnut and a good chat before going back to work.

“It was our unspoken commitment that we would continue to work in the park for as long as we could; we wouldn’t quit,” said Kitto. “We’d look forward to just going down there.”

Last Wednesday, the two men worked, ate and chatted at the park for the last time. On Monday, Bannerman died suddenly at his home.

“He’s a fabulous guy — very easy-going — oh heavens, just a great, great guy to work with,” said Kitto.

The No. 6 Heritage Mine Park committee is just one example of the work Bannerman did to highlight the history of the Village of Cumberland, where he was born and raised.

He was also very active, along with his wife Cindy, in the Cumberland beautification committee, Heritage Fair planning committee, developing the historical information boards that line the village’s streets along with other service.

Coun. Leslie Baird worked with Bannerman on many of those groups.

“He was so organized, down to the smallest detail. He always had a good time at a meeting — there was always jokes and always laughter,” said Baird, reflecting on his work.

“Whatever you asked him to do, it was 100 per cent — he always came through for you and worked with you,” she said.

His commitment to community wasn’t only in historical work, though — he was also a longtime educator with School District 71. He began work at Arden Elementary in 1968 — working his way up to principal, where for the longest consecutive period of his career, he led Royston Elementary.

“Ron was an amazing guy — he was always jovial, he always made learning fun for the kids,” said Allan Douglas, director of instruction for SD71. “He ... really engaged the kids and was such a good storyteller.”

After years of leading schools, Bannerman decided to return to the classroom, taking on teaching jobs at Glacier View and finally Cumberland, before retiring in 1999.

His sudden death left many surprised in the village. Florence Bell, another long-term resident and active community member, was sad to hear the news.

“I’ll always remember him whistling; anytime he was out in the yard, he was whistling a tune,” she said.

Bannerman is survived by his wife Cindy, father John, children Mike and Kim (Shawn) and granddaugher Zoey.

A memorial service is being planned for Nov. 21 at 1:30 p.m. at the CRI Hall in Cumberland. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.