DEAR EDITOR: I spent a very quiet Father’s Day this year thinking about the many fatherly figures in my life. Today, many societal problems are blamed on the fragmented family life and irresponsible fathers. I count myself fortunate that not only did I have an exemplary father but I had many significant male influences in my life. I wish to pay tribute to them.

Clive Pantin was my principal at Fatima College from 1972 to 1981. He is certainly one of this country’s treasures. He is a humble, selfless, positive and charismatic individual who has contributed immensely to national life.

I value highly his work with the Wes Hall Cricket League. He inspired many of our successful cricketers. He inspired me to go that extra mile in teaching “for the good of the boys”.

Mervyn Moore is indeed one of the greatest human beings I have ever met. Nothing can erase that engaging smile from his face. He joined Fatima’s staff in 1959 and has never left. He returned as principal to return as Religion teacher.

He made us appreciate the goodness in every pupil under our charge. He gave chances to many. He led his staff to develop a deep love for Fatima College, grow as professionals and foster the concept of a Fatima Family. He taught us to care.

Oswin “Butters” Martineau runs the Mathematics Institute in Belmont and also teaches at the Russel Latapy High School. He taught formerly at Trinity College.

What a teacher! He is always surrounded by books and pupils. My father went to Ideal High School to make a telephone call, heard him teach and was inspired to pursue O- Level subjects in his thirties. We thank him for this.

Every professional should have a mentor, an advisor, a consultant. The late Paul Borely fulfilled that role in my life. He was the principal of St Anthony’s College. What a great human being! I constantly sought his professional advice and his opinions were based on integrity and concern for people.

Finally, my own father, simple, humble, honest, intelligent, outspoken, committed. He worked and studied six days a week and limed for seven days. He inspired and educated many.

Our last conversation focused on my profession. My last promise to him was “to use my teaching to help children”. Thanks, Dad. I am trying.
Glen D Roach, Diego Martin