Red Deer Public Schools is sad to announce today that long time trustee William "Bill" Christie passed away on Sunday at the age of 73.

Christie served on the Board of Trustees since 2010. Prior to that, he was on the school boards of two jurisdictions in British Columbia for the past 25 years. 

“Bill was incredibly proud to serve his community as a school board trustee,” said Nicole Buchanan, Board Chair. “Bill was a trustee for 35 years, first becoming a trustee at age 22 in B.C. He was committed to meeting the needs of students, particularly vulnerable students. He was also a strong champion for public school education and local autonomy of school boards to best meet the needs of local communities. Beyond that his fellow trustees remember Bill as a gentle-man who was kind, had a memorable smile, supported other trustees, took great pride in both his Scottish and B.C. heritage and had a great sense of humour. It was an honour to serve with Bill.”

“Bill valued being a part of the Red Deer Public School community. He enjoyed being in our schools and was very proud of the work and accomplishments of our students and staff,” said Superintendent Chad Erickson. “Bill was a strong advocate for public school education and was passionate about the potential of schools and our students. He was a devoted husband, father and very proud of his grandchildren.”

He also served on the Red Deer Regional Health Foundation Board, the United Way, and the Red Deer Highland Games Committee. Bill is survived by his wife off 44 years, Terry, as well as a son, daughter, and five grandchildren.