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Br J S Joakim 1958-05-02 |
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Br John Stanislaus Joakim (1891-1958) came from a simple and devout Anglo Indian family from Entally, Calcutta. He was a great teacher, and led rather than drove his students as was the practice at that time. Especially gifted in teaching slow learners, he encouraged them by highlighting the progress they made and held before them hope for the future. He is remembered as being 'solidly religious', putting the things of God first. He also loved sports and outdoor games, and was outstanding at hockey, football and cricket. He had a 'wicked left foot' that would send the football hurtling to the back of the net. Others describe him as the best hockey player in Calcutta. But the word 'shikar' would bring a smile to his face. He was a crack shot and a strong man who could walk for miles without food. When Br Stan went to Mt Abu, there were only 24 boys on the rolls. Homeliness has been a marked feature of this school and most admit that he was largely responsible for that. He would take the boys out for jungle walks and they would learn a great deal of jungle lore from him. They loved him for his gentle ways. Then disaster struck. One of the boarders driven to desperation shot two of his school mates. The gun had been taken from Br Stan's room which was adjoining the senior dormitory. He was deeply shaken by the incident and was not spared a firm censure from the police. Providential protection and prudent management established confidence. Not a single boy was withdrawn from the school. In later years ex-pupils and parents could not say enough good about the good and kind gentlemanly ways of Br Stan. He was always humble, dignified, neatly dressed and was never known to be rude in speech or manner. In 1957 Br Stan was admitted to hospital in Delhi but was able to return to his beloved Mt Abu to celebrate his Golden Jubilee. Greetings poured in from India and abroad — he was in tears. Four months later he passed away. RIP —Stephen de Silva (1972) |