PP Jindra Repa
Jan 4, 1945 - Jan 12, 2010

 

Jindra Repa was born in Prague, Czechoslovakia, on January 4th, 1945 and died peacefully in Vancouver on January 12th, 2010, with his devoted wife, Carmen, at his side.

Loved and admired by his family and friends for his gentle nature, diplomacy, and witty sense of humour, Jindra was at heart a poet, writer and educator. Jindra grew up in Prague, attending Charles University before studying literature in Iceland.

He immigrated to Canada in the late 1960's where he completed studies in English and German literature, initially at the University of British Columbia and later, at the University of Toronto.

Jindra began his life work in education at Vancouver Community College in the 1970's during which time he met the love of his life, Carmen. His flair for languages and cultures proved its value in a courtship that included an exchange of German and Spanish lessons eventually leading to their marriage in 1983.

Moving back to Ontario, Jindra continued working at Sheridan and St. Clair Colleges in Ontario. Finally settling in Vancouver, Jindra became Director of several private colleges, founding Arbutus College in 2002. Located in downtown Vancouver, Arbutus College offers courses in business, international trade, marketing, information technology and language translation.Jindra's personal commitment to the highest standard of education and his deep understanding of social culture is evident in the core philosophy of his College focussing on excellence in communication.

Jindra was actively involved in the Rotary Club of Richmond, and was known for his passion for cycling, often cycling to and from the College and occasionally heading out to the far-reaching suburbs of Vancouver.

He was also a keen writer, producing short stories and poems, some of which have been published in journals and newspapers. Jindra will be deeply missed by his loving wife, Carmen Ramirez, and his many friends, students and colleagues. A Celebration of his Life will be held at a later time.