Biography
Brother Augustus Barry was born on 14th October 1909 in Burma. He arrived in Hong Kong on 6th January 1932. Brother Augustus taught Class 3 till his transfer to Mandalay on 22nd April 1933. He died in Rangoon (now called Yangon) in 1934.
Biography
Brother Hugh Bates was Irish, coming from Clonmel, County Tipperary. In 1930, he entered the Senior Novitiate and after four years of scholastic training, he chose to work in the East. He started off in St. Joseph’s Institution, Singapore and then worked in several schools in Malaysia. At the end of the War, he came to La Salle College. Brother Hugh was a workaholic who seemed to be happy only with working. Unfortunately, he could only stay with La Salle College for three years. At the age of 41, he died suddenly on 31st May 1953 in the Perth Street campus.
Biography
Brother Ubald Bloemen was born on 23rd August 1912 in Germany. He arrived in Hong Kong on 25th April 1933. He taught Class 2. In 1936, he was transferred to St. Joseph’s College, Hong Kong. He passed away in Manila in 1974.
Biography
Brother Casimir L’Angellier was born in Singapore, 5 May 1900. He belonged to a highly respected, staunch, long-standing Catholic family. After receiving his early education in St. Joseph’s Institution, Singapore, he was among the first novices to join the Da La Salle Brothers at the newly opened Novitiate in Kuala Lumpur, 1916.
After his religious and pedagogical training, he taught with success in Singapore and Malaysia. He held the post of Principal for more than 20 years. In 1970, he came to Hong Kong to help Brother Paul Sun in St. Joseph’s Anglo-Chinese School. When his health deteriorated slightly he returned to help in La Salle Primary School.
He suffered a stroke in 1971 and was confined to St. Teresa’s Hospital where he remained an example of calm, patience and resignation to God’s will until his death on 18 December [1975] – exactly one week short of his Golden Jubilee of Perpetual Profession as a Brother. He made his profession in the Order of the Brothers on Christmas Day, 1925.
The Brothers wish to record their sincere thanks to the Sisters and Nursing Staff of St. Teresa’s Hospital who over the past years rendered Brother Casimir such persevering, loving and devoted care.
The above is directly copied from the Hong Kong Catholic Church website.
http://archives.catholic.org.hk/memory/L-Casimir.htm
Biography
Brother Anthony Cheung, La Salle Brother, passed away, in Assunta Hospital in the early hours of 25 May 1999 after a long illness. Soon after retirement in 1997 he was not in the best of health but remained reasonably active till his admission to Assunta Hospital on 5 April. Brother Anthony Cheung, though born in Hong Kong, chose to remain in Malaysia to exercise his ministry in five La Sallian establishments. Wherever he was, be it in Penang, Taiping, Kowloon, lpoh or Petaling Jaya, he was noted as a man of many talents which he put to use for the good of his students, readers and subjects in training. He is better known as the editor of the popular students’ magazine “Crusader” which was always looked forward to by the students in Malaysia, Singapore and Hong Kong. Through this ministry he built a wide network of friends and well-wishers who donated generously to his charitable works for the orphans and poor of India. Over and above his main interest in publishing the “Crusader”, later renamed “The Young Lasallian”, he was the indefatigable secretary and confidante to five Provincials that spanned a record-breaking 30 years. Information obtained from http://archives.catholic.org.hk/memory/A-Cheung.htm According to a Br. Felix in Malaysia advised that Br. Anthony Cheung is buried in Cheras Christian Cemetery in Kuala Lumpur. When in KL, visitors can take a taxi to the cemetery. One should follow the road to the top of hill to his left where there is a small unused reception chapel. The Brothers are buried in a straight row to the right of the chapel as one approaches it. Br. Felix (residing in Petaling Jaya, a suburb of KL) says he is willing to assist with a visit help if necessary or the Brothers at St John’s Institution could also help. If any Old Boy visits the cemetery, please take photos of the graves and send them to the [email protected], as there may be other Brothers who worked in HK (not only LSC) who are buried there, and the OBA would like to help the Brothers in Hong Kong with such findings. Thank you.
Contributed by: | TCÂ Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 2012-05-21 18:46:01 |
Description: | I was one of those who lived with Br Anthony Cheung in Petaling Jaya. I was under his tutelage; there were more than 15 at one stage. He was the Director of the Scholasticate programme. He taught cathecism in La Salle Primary School (Br. Leo was Headmaster). He was an inspiration to all the young Lasallians through his publication which was very popular. He also used to collect and re-sell used stamps and the money was sent to India. Many well-wishers used to collect used stamps and they would arrive; a great place for teenage schoolboys to spend hours looking through and selecting the used stamps. What strikes me most was he was a Brother that gave out red packets during Chinese New Year and we all looked forward to that; especially those who did not go back home. He was a Brother. And he was family. |
Contributed by: | Chu T C’71Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 2004-08-24 19:50:10 |
Description: | As far as I know, he never taught at LSPS but only at LSC. Aside from the above contributions, Bro. Anthony-Philip was well known for his work in setting up and was the conductor/music director of the LSC orchestra. During the summer holidays, he and the late Bro. Henry organised boating and swimming outings for the orchestral members and families. Another area he was actively involved in was in “training and recruiting” (I do not know the religious term)young men as future Brothers. He had four under his “tutelage” at one time but unfortunately, the program did not achieve the successes that we all hoped for. |
Biography
The following was shared by Mike Kwong (67) on 30 Sep 2003: Dear all: Mr. Chu, our LS teacher who used to teach our Chinese was passed away on Sept 23 [2003], in Hong Kong from massive heart attack. Let us pray for our respected teacher and let our prayers and sympathy be passed on to his family & friends. His picture, during his visit to Edmonton a while back, could be seen in our chapter’s photo album. Regards, Mike Kwong The following was a sharing from Chris Leung, a former student, on the passing of Mr Chu: Chris Leung on Mr Chu while he was a student in LSC: “Mr. Chu taught us Chinese Literature and Chinese History for many years (from F1 – F.5). If I am not mistaken, I also had him for Matric. We called him “CHU LO” who took over the Chinese subjects from Mr. Yip Wing Lam. Despite his boring teaching style, he was a great teacher who always prepared for his lessons. He was a gentleman who took his responsibilities seriously. He also made life easier for us with his notes. We took advantage of his “softness” by calling him names all the time, but he was not offended because he loved his students. It was sad to hear he passed away after his two visits to Edmonton. Chris” (end of quote) The photo attached shows a visit of Mr Chu to Edmonton in the early 1990s. Left to right are: Mike Kwong, Edmund Tse, Mr Chu Yum Kwan, Chris Leung and Dr. Louis Chan.
Biography
Brother Michael Curtin was born to a religious family on 20th March 1908 (some source states it was 26th March 1908) in London (Kensington). His grand uncle was a pioneer of the Irish Christian Brothers (not the same as Christian Brothers) in India and two of his cousins were in the Presentation Order. As a boy, he met a little French Brother of distinguished personality who inspired him much. At the age of 14, he joined the Juniorate of the Brothers in Guernsey (London) in 1922. After passing the London Matric, he was sent to Dover Novitiate and took the Holy Habit i.e. officially entered the Order in 1924 at the age of 16. He took his final vows in 1933. Brother Michael came to Hong Kong in 1933, and took charge of the newly opened Matriculation Class of La Salle College. These boys took their Matric Examination in June 1935 and captured all the scholarships offered by the University of Hong Kong. During the war, he was interned in Indo-China (now called Vietnam) and then returned to Europe. Brother Michael partially lost his hearing during the internment. With a hearing-aid, he carried on with his teaching. In 1952, Brother Raphael, then Director of St. Joseph’s College, Hong Kong called Brother Michael back to take over the Matric Class of St. Joseph’s College, Hong Kong. Nine years later, he returned to La Salle College. He was the Editor of the LaSallite for many years. In 1967, when Brother Casimir went on leave for 9 months, Brother Michael became the Acting Principal of La Salle College. Brother Michael joked that he was always the bridesmaid and never the bride! In 1973, on his retirement, he was given the post of Careers Master and Counsellor. Brother Michael was very active outside the school. He was elected a Committee Member of the Catholic Educational Council, a Co-Founder of the Hong Kong Association of Careers Master, the Panel Chairman of the Specified Modern Languages for the Hong Kong Certificate of Education. He also served on the Advanced Board of Modern Languages (HKU). In recognition of his contribution to Catholic education and education generally in Hong Kong, on the Queen’s Birthday, 1975, he was honoured with an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) Brother Michael died in St. Teresa’s Hospital, Hong Kong on 25th November 1983. Brother Raphael revealed a secret at the mass of resurrection of Brother Michael: Brother Michael always cared about the minor staff and insisted every year that all of them should receive Christmas gifts. _____________________________________________ The following information is obtained from The Catholic Archives http://archives.catholic.org.hk/memory/M-Curtin.htm Brother Michael J. Curtin, FSC, one of the leaders of education in Hong Kong, died at St. Teresa’s Hospital on Friday, 15 November 1983, aged 75. He had been ill for many months, but the end came very peacefully. Brother Michael came to Hong Kong in 1932, and spent the following 51 years at La Salle and St. Joseph’s Colleges, with a wartime and post-war interval in education in Indochina. For most of that time he was busy in the classroom as an original, vigorous and inspiring teacher. Even after his retirement from formal teaching he remained an educational force in La Salle and a valuable adviser on all educational matters. His contribution to Catholic education here was not confined to the schools he taught in. He was a founder-member of the Catholic Education Council and became its first Vice Chairman, retaining that post for many years. With his accustomed cheerful generosity, he accepted the arduous task of refining and redrafting the constitution of the Council to make it acceptable to the Register of Societies. He was also a founder-member of the Hong Kong Association of Careers Masters and gave devoted and expert attention to the progress of the Association. He himself shone in careers guidance, and he worked hard to promote this demanding and very valuable side of education. A recent Education Department circular on the Careers Work of La Salle College said that “the extensive careers and guidance team which consists of 13 teachers and a school social worker is one of the strongest teams in Hong Kong.” That team is largely the fruit of Brother Michael’s devoted work. His M.B.E. was well merited. All this gives a picture of an original and deeply committed educationalist. It cannot give a portrait of the man himself and cannot explain the deep affection in which he was held or the grief that the announcement of his death aroused. He was a man of high intelligence, broad sympathies, wide culture and unfailing charm. His sense of humour was quick and appreciative. His laugh was all his own: his whole body shook with amusement and his eyes shone forth appreciative understanding, but there was no sound; it was a silent laugh that expressed much more than the ordinary laugher’s roar. In a moving homily at the Mass of the Resurrection in St. Teresa’a Church on 28 November, Brother Raphael, Principal of La Salle College, mentioned something that only Brother Michael’s own community could know: his constant care for the welfare of the minor staff and his annual insistence that all of them should received Christmas gifts. It is useless to labour such details. Brother Michael was loved because he was Brother Michael. To know him was a liberal education. The secret has died with him, and Hong Kong is the poorer for his loss.
Contributed by: | Tommy Chan (77)Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 2004-12-06 23:55:08 |
Description: | I remember most of us had received a precious & memorable gift from Bro Michael——–our La Salle school transcripts. |
Contributed by: | Stanley Shum (84)Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 2004-12-06 23:54:26 |
Description: | My twin brother, Henry Shum, and I were also summoned by Bro. Michael down to the Old Boys Room in 1980 when we were in Form 1. You know what, he told us that he wanted to take a few photos of us. And then, afterwards he told us that we would appear on the cover page of the Junior section. This happened for the following year as well. He didn’t give us anything, just a few developed photos, haha. As far as I can remember, he was really kind to us, seeing that my brother and I were really frightened at the time when we met him, (we didn’t know why we were brought down to the office) but he comforted us gently telling us not to be afraid. |
Biography
Bro Wilfred De Cruz was born 4 April 1917 in Burma. He arrived in Hong Kong on 20 January 1968. He taught in lower forms of La Salle College. he was appointed Sub-director of Community Brothers in March 1970. Brother Wilfred was transferred to Aulstralia in 1971 and he passed away in 1988.
Contributed by: | GERALD Cruz         2014-02-06 11:44:07 |
Description: | I will always remember Bro.Wilfred as he taught me in form 2A.I left Hong Kong in 1971 for Vancover,B.C. Canada and he came Canada to see us.I can still remember the dinner we had together my classmates Christopher Bee and Michael Young-Lai in Vancouver! And signed my high school year both with the reunion of us all! God Bless you Bro. Wilfred. |
Contributed by: | Mark Huang (85)Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 2006-09-10 02:15:13 |
Description: | Dear Tomas, good to hear from you. I wonder if you have any photos of your days in La Salle, especially those with Brother Wilfred? We are building a collection of photos of old La Salle, and we would love to add to the collection if you have any. Cheers Mark Heritage Sub Committee LSCOBA |
Contributed by: | Tomas Vieira         2006-09-04 19:58:58 |
Description: | I was in Brother Wilfred’s 1971 F2 class. Iimmigrated to Australia in 1979 and met Brother in his retirement at the Brother’s facility in Redcliffe, Queensland. He was thrilled to see me again to know that he was so fondly remembered and cherished for his patronage of us football boys. He took us camping to Lantau as well as Fanling. He had a great sense of humour and was a source of great encouragement to all |
Contributed by: | David Hsu (1973)Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 2004-07-01 18:26:19 |
Description: | Rev Bro Wilfred was F2A form master in 69-70 and a very devoted teacher indeed. He use to give us tests or dictations in the first session at 8:15am and he would have all 40 test papers marked and comments ready after recess at 10:30am. His principle is that as we are still fresh with the topics tested, to have the test marked and comments made within an hour is the best way to learn refreshingly and avoid the mistakes at the first instant. He also believes that reciting poems every week can definitely improve and generate a stronger memory. As such it did improve our memory to the extent that after reciting would commit to our memory instantly. He was also keen on the social life of his students. He sponsored the Wilfred Football Club for the Summer League and always took the team out for dinner which was a luxury then. |
Biography
Many past pupils, parents and friends will be sad to hear of the death of Brother Austin De Lemos who passed away peacefully on the 14 December 1995 at St. Tereas’s Hospital Kowloon.
Our grief is somewhat lightened by the fact that Brother Austin led a long, full and fruitful life in the Lord’s service. Born at the turn of the century in 1900 in Burma (Myanmar), he joined the De La Salle Brothers as an aspirant in 1916. His many years of dedicated service to education began at St. John’s Kuala Lumpur in 1942 and from then until 1954 he taught in the Brothers schools in Penang, Melaka, Taiping, Seremban and Singapore. He was transferred to Burma in 1954 and taught in Moulmein, Twante and Rangoon until the nationalisation of all Catholic schools in 1965. Brother Austin’s “retirement” years were spent first in Malaysia (1966-1977) and then in La Salle College, Kowloon (1977-1995). Retirement in hardly the appropriate word for Brother Austin, because up to very recently he continued to teach and tutor students. Brother Austin’s life was a fine illustration of the spirit of the Institute he joined, the spirit of faith and of zeal. In the spirit of faith, he always sought to do God’s will and to see everybody and everything with the eyes of faith. In the spirit of zeal for the instruction of children, he taught with efficiency and enthusiasm and regarded the teaching profession with pride. Brother Austin was the last of his family to die, his younger sister having passed away three years ago at the age of 87. We extend our sympathies to his nephews, nieces and other relatives, for whom Brother Austin had a heartfelt and prayerful attachment. To all who in one way or another helped Brother Austin on his life’s journey, thank you. May your generosity be rewarded. Brother Austin was laid to rest in St. Michael’s Catholic Cemetery, Happy Valley, on 16 December.
Information obtained from http://archives.catholic.org.hk/memory/A-Lemos.htm
Biography
Brother Vulbas Deruaz was born on 3rd May 1885 in Savoy. He arrived in Hong Kong on 18th January 1939. He passed away in St. Joseph’s College, Hong Kong in 1941.
Biography
Brother Richard Dolby was born on 5th December 1894 in Upper Burma (now called Myanmar). He arrived in Hong Kong on 6th January 1932. Brother Richard taught Class 2 for one year in La Salle College and was then transferred to Malacca in April 1933. Brother Richard passed away in Burma in 1975.
Biography
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Biography
Brother Defenseur Dupont was born in France on 23rd January 1885. He arrived in Hong Kong on 8th February 1934. He taught the Class 1 (equivalent to today’s Form 6). He died in Singapore in 1963.
Biography
Brother Raphael Egan belonged to a family with a long association with the Christian Brothers. His mother,Mary Maher, was first cousin of the gentle Brother Gordian Maher. Two of his uncles were members of the Christian Brothers – Brother Gerald Patrick and Brother Justin Declan.
Brother Raphael was born on 3rd December 1918 in County Laois, Ireland. Three days later he was baptized and was given the names Patrick Joseph. He was second in a family of nine. One of his brothers joined the Christian Brothers as well. All five of his sisters became nuns.
The young man left for the Juniorate in Castletown on 17th August 1932. Following his novitiate, he went directly to Faithlegg for two years of Scholasticate. He was then posted to Ardee for some practical experience. In 1939, he went to De La Salle College, Waterford for teacher training. Two years later, he returned to Ardee. After teaching for four years in Ardee, he was sent to Dublin to study for a university degree.
In the late 1940s, La Salle College faced many difficulties. Resources and quality teachers were in short supply in this post-war era. Classrooms were packed with young people hungry for education. By God’s grace, Brother Raphael arrived at La Salle College in 1947 to teach the matriculation class. His students shone in public examinations.
His initial stay with La Salle College was brief. At the age of only 32, he was appointed Principal of St. Joseph’s College, Hong Kong in 1949. The staff and students considered him a great educator. He extended his care to other Brothers, priests and missionaries who were expelled from the Mainland China. He provided shelters and support to these servants of God.
Brother Raphael was recognized as an iron man with a strong body, mind and spirit. Hence in 1958, his former Director of novices, Brother Fintan Blake, selected him to become a member of a 3-man pioneer team to Borneo. Over there, Christian Brothers took over a school, which was situated in a very underdeveloped swampy area. Dogs, ducks, hens and goats roamed freely. The first morning Brother Raphael entered the Teacher Common Room, a hen hopped gracefully onto his desk. The hen laid an egg in front of him and cackled. Everyone present was embarrassed but was soon relieved with laughter as Brother Raphael commented that was the nicest welcoming gesture.
The students were academically weak and many were above average age. With his hard work and determination, the school grew in size and strength. He developed a close and lasting relationship with students, staff and the community. Brother Charles said, “He was the boss, made the decisions, results were achieved and nobody was unduly worried how they were achieved. He could be gruff, moody and sharp. On the other hand, he was kind and thoughtful in little ways as in big. He gave you a lot of rope, let you do your own thing; develop your interests with minimum interference and lots of encouragement. He was generous and people found it easy to relate with him.”
After being absent from La Salle College for 14 years, Brother Raphael returned in 1971. He was to be Principal for the coming 12 years. During his tenure, Brother Raphael made lots of innovations. In 1975, he turned the old Prefect Board, which helped the principal oversee students, into the Student Association, which represented the students. He established the Guidance Centre, Religious Centre and implemented Computer Studies in the curriculum. He allowed the old boys to use sports facilities on Sundays. Under his tutelage La Salle College grew in strength. In the academic aspect, there were 9-As scholars. In sports, La Salle College captured the Omega Rose Bowl for 10 consecutive years.
Needless to say, the greatest innovation achieved was to turn the Dome into the Quad. Brother Raphael considered that the Dome was majestic but could not meet up with needs in the coming decades to provide excellent education. His idea was approved. Work began in 1977. On Friday, 8th June 1979, the La Salle community took possession of the new La Salle College. The whole building has central air-conditioning. Sports facilities include a 50-m swimming pool, a 6-lane 400-m track, an indoor gymnasium and a full-size astro turf soccer pitch.
In 1984, Brother Raphael reached retiring age. He passed the baton to Brother Alphonsus Chee and became the supervisor of La Salle College. At the end of September 1988, Brother Raphael underwent a major operation. This marked his two-year personal Calvary. He lost his physical strength and appetite. His spirit, however, was kept strong. Brother Henry said, “He is very cheerful and bears his sufferings very bravely trying his best not to show it and sometimes even venturing into my art room in order to crack a joke. He is full of faith and very prayerful, making regular trips to the chapel when he can walk.”
Despite his ill health, he cared about students and the schools run by the Christian Brothers. Brother Kevin Byrne, the principal of St. Joseph’s Institution in Singapore wrote, “Although Brother Raphael never served in Singapore, he was a great supporter of the New St. Joseph’s Development Project. When first approached for help he said nothing whatsoever. The Brothers who knew him informed us this was a good sign. We were greatly encouraged shortly afterwards to receive a substantial donation with a few words of good wishes. About a month before he passed away he invited a wealthy property developer in Hong Kong to donate to our New SJI Endowment Fund and we were pleasantly surprised to receive a cheque of $100,000 (in Singapore Dollars). He was a man who didn’t wear his heart on his sleeve but for all that he was very thoughtful to those in need.
Brother Raphael returned to Ireland in 1990. He visited many of his relatives in Ireland despite repeated episodes of fever and hospitalization. Although he was thousands of miles away from La Salle College, his heart was with us. Brother Raphael told his family, “If I feel alright, I want to return next month to Hong Kong which has 85% of me, of my heart and soul.
On 23rd July 1990, Brother Raphael was again hospitalized. On 23rd July 1990, at 04:20, the great man left for heaven.
_____________________________________ The following information was obtained from The Catholic Archives website: http://archives.catholic.org.hk/memory/R-Egan.htm
Brother Raphael Egan joined the Brothers in Castletown, Ireland.
He was posted to Hong Kong in 1947 and took up a teaching post in La Salle College and his past pupils still speak of his kindly manner and of the new impetus he gave to their formerly boring hours in the classroom. After two years he was appointed Director and Principle of St. Joseph’s College which was still recovering from the ravages of war. He set about re-furnishing and reorganising, recruiting better teachers and encouraging the pupils to make up for the four years of schooling they has missed as a result of the Japanese Occupation.
When he left after nine years, St. Joseph had regained its former reputation of being one of the leading schools in Hong Kong.
After a lapse of some thirteen years, Brother Raphael was later transferred back to Hong Kong and took charge of La Salle College, Kowloon. He discovered that the school was over-crowded and some of the classrooms were not up to the standard he would like. He soon set his mind on a new College. We now see the result of his planning in the new College on La Salle Road, acclaimed by many to be the finest school building in Asia. Even some Brothers on holiday from famous colleges in America were heard to say “Gee, Brother, we have nothing like this in the U.S.”
One of his great assets was his candour and the hold he had over people who got to know him; they were willing to spend time, energy and where possible, money to help him to adchieve his plans. He never lost a friend and even during the painful days towards to end of this life he was constantly writing letters to rich and poor alike in Europe, Asia and America. He was always very concerned about the pupils in his school and very generous in a quiet way to those in financial need. On one occasion a little boy fell on a broken bottle near the school and received a deep gash. He was brought into the Office bleeding profusely. Brother Raphael immediately phoned an ambulance and accompanised the boy to Queen Mary Hospital. The Doctor decided that a blood transfusion was advisable. A Nursing Sister come to Brother Raphael and said there was a severe shortage of blood and if no donor came forward they would have to charge a fee. Brother immediately stretched out his arm, pulled up his slieve saying: “plenty of it here Sister.” There is no doubt but he will he remembered by many and his passing will be deeply mourned.
He was always a very deeply religious person, but it came so natural to him that it could pass unnoticed to casual observers. He had a strong devotion to the Mass and to our Blessed Lady. During his final painful months he never complained and it would seem that during much of his time alone was given to prayer. He died in Ireland on 23 July 1990.
Contributed by: | Robert Yuen Kar Ngai (71)Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 2009-01-18 15:55:15 |
Description: | I was the Head Prefect of the School when Brother Raphael came to HK to take up the post of Principal of La Salle College in 1972. He was very kind to me and introduced the major reform in the structure of students’ activities – ie the formation of Student Association. I can still vividly remember that we organised several brainstorming meetings in the grand old Hall. May his kind soul rest in peace in the hands of our Lord Jesus Christ. |
Biography
Brother Herman Fenton was born in County Limerick, Ireland in April 1913. He taught in La Salle College from 1947 to 1969 and was once the Sports Master. In 1965, he became the First Principal of La Salle Evening School, which in September 1969, evolved into Chan Sui Ki (La Salle) College in Homantin. Brother Herman passed away peacefully in February 2009 at the ripe old age of 96. At the 40th Anniversary of Chan Sui Ki (La Salle) College, held in February 2009, Brother Patrick Tierney, Guest of Honour of the opening ceremony shared the following on Brother Herman, the Founder of the school: “Although we are sorry he cannot be with us today, we thank God that Brother Herman is still alive and still keenly interested in the affairs of the College. In fact he holds the distinction of having founded 3 schools in all: La Salle Evening School, Chan Sui Ki(La Salle) College and Chan Sui Ki (La Salle) Primary School.” Brother Herman’s funeral mass will be held at 9:30 am on 25th February, 2009, at St Teresa’s Church. The burial will be held immediately after at the Happy Valley St Michael Catholic Cemetery.
Contributed by: | Historic P. M. Section Students         2009-03-10 11:22:17 |
Description: | As conducted by the De La Salle Brothers, today, St. Josephî–¸ College, La Salle College, and Chan Sui Ki (La Salle) College are prestigious schools with outstanding scholastic achievements, making news headlines in Hong Kong. But the mostly forgotten, yet brilliant event in La Salle College history was the day when Brother Herman re-enacted as Saint John Baptist de La Salle educating the poor boys in the neighborhood. Brother Herman founded the La Salle Evening School, by extending the LSC teaching hours to the evening, employing the same LSC teaching staffs, using the same LSC text books, sharing the same LSC campus. During the evening hours, Brother Herman was offering the same elite LSC education to the less fortunate boys, who otherwise could not afford a secondary school education. Thank God! I was one of the poor boys benefited from the Evening school. The elite LSC education has changed my life, and changed so many other poor boys like me. It is unaccountable for how much we should thank to Brother Herman or how much we owed him. I cannot hold my tears when I learned that Brother Herman has passed away. On behalf of all the La Salle Evening School students, I pay tribute to Brother Herman, and may God bless the soul of Brother Herman, resting in peace. |
Contributed by: | Thomas Lee (70)Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 2009-02-25 11:50:18 |
Description: | I was a student of Bro. Herman in the late 60s at La Salle College. I remember Bro. Herman as a very gentle and dedicated a teacher. Last April, I visited Bro. Herman at LSCî–¸ Brotherî–¸ Quarter and he was very alert and happy to meet one of his former students. Bro. Herman, as expected, didnî–ą remember me. However, when I told him that I still remember the book that I learned from him, î“żinds in the Willows?and also told him that Iî–˛ active in the church, he gave me a big smile. I thank God for mentors and teachers at LSC like Bro. Herman. May Bro. Herman rest in Godî–¸ eternal peace. |
Contributed by: | Alexius Wong (69)Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 2009-02-25 00:02:43 |
Description: | Several years ago another classmate and I went to Chan Sui Ki (La Salle) College to visit Bro Herman. He taught us in the 60s. We had not seen him for almost 40 years. He, of course, could not recall our names or recognize our faces. We told him we were his students and expected him to ask us our names, year of graduation etc. To our great surprise, his very first question was “How can I help you?” That was a deeply moving moment I will never forget. Being weak and old, in his mind Bro Herman was still thinking of the goodwill of others. He devoted his whole life to the Church, to education, and to love. May his soul rest in peace! |
Contributed by: | Mark Huang         2009-02-24 11:27:33 |
Description: | Brother Herman spent some 60 years in Hong Kong. He devoted his life to educating the youth in Hong Kong, be they from LSC, La Salle Evening School, CSK (La Salle) College or juniors in CSK (La Salle) Primary. Let us not take what the Brothers have sacrificed for granted. Without them, there would be no La Salle, no CSK. |
Contributed by: | Bill Wong (66)Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 2009-02-23 01:36:08 |
Description: | I am saddened to hear the passing of Brother Herman. Brother Herman was a selfless and keen educator, who had influenced many Lasallians. His kindness, mild manner and dedication to the La Salle community will always be remembered. May his soul rest in peace! Bill |
Contributed by: | Mark Huang (85)Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â 2007-02-16 23:13:34 |
Description: | Well said, Historic P.M. Section students! Thank you for the sharing. |
Contributed by: | Historic P. M. Section students         2006-12-27 03:10:48 |
Description: | La Salle Evening School was also known as the La Salle College P. M. Section. Now, it is part of the La Salle College history; and also part of Chan Sui Ki (La Salle) College history. La Salle College was just like a mother carrying with her a fetus, the Evening School. After years of gestation, she gave birth to a new school, the CSK (La Salle) College. All this great work was relied on the strong leadership and robust effort of Brother Herman. The energetic Brother Herman again founded the Chan Sui Ki Primary School. It is no doubt that Brother Herman is one of the greatest LaSallian educators enhancing the LaSallian spirit, in Hong Kong. |
Biography
Brother Fridolin Gaughran was born on 15th November 1915 in Trim, on the plains of Math, Ireland. He received his early education at a local school. In 1930, he joined the Juniorate in Castletown. He entered the Novitiate the following year and took the Holy Habit and was given the name Brother Fridolin of Jesus. Brother went to Inglewood in England to compete his studies. It was in Inglewood that he felt called to serve in the East. In 1934, not yet 19, Brother Fridolin started teaching in Singapore. He taught in different schools in Malaysia including those in Sarawak and Sabah. Brother completed his tour in the Penang District in 1971 ** when he arrived in Hong Kong. He came to La Salle College and taught English and Bible. On year later, he was transferred to St. Josephî–¸ College, Hong Kong. He continued to teach there till 1976. After his retirement, Brother Fridolin stayed on in St Josephî–¸ until 1986. Although he could not teach classroom lessons officially, Brother conducted religious instructions and was a beloved Spiritual Director of the Legion of Mary. He was transferred to Castletown due to ill health. He passed away on 6th August 1988. (Copied from “The Brothers” published by LSCOBA in 2003 [** but slightly modified with some old boys input])
Biography
Brother Gerfried Hastreiter was born on 23rd August 1912 in Germany. He arrived in Hong Kong on 25th April 1933. He taught Classes 2 and 3. Mr. Henry Lau (1940) who later taught in La Salle College, said,” He was my Form Master when I was a pupil in Class 2B, equivalent to Form 5B nowadays. He was a German, and as such, he exhibited all the characteristics of a German stereotype: disciplined and pedantic. He taught Chemistry, Mathematics and Religious Knowledge. In class, he seldom smiled, and had no time for diversion of any kind. Hence, his was a solid lesson. Invariably, he began his lesson with oral questions on topics taught during previous lessons, mainly on definitions of chemical terms and chemical reactions. We had to rattle off from memory because we were taught neither the Ionic Theory nor the principle of gain or loss of electrons or protons during a chemical reaction to be able to balance a chemical equation. Dialogue between Teachers or Brothers with pupils was very minimal because the Staff Room was regrded as a Sanctum Sanctorum and was thus off-limit to pupils. Though the pedagogy was outdated and might even be condemned by modern educators, it provided most of us with a solid foundation of basic skills and knowledge which stood us in good stead when we were in the university.” Brother Gerfried was one of the sixteen Christian Brothers who were massacred by the Japanese in Manila on 6th February 1945.
Biography
Brother Casimir Husarik was born on 22nd July 1914 in Czechoslovakia, gifted with a marked aptitude for languages. In early years, he studied in Lembecq, Belgium and Dover, England. He later obtained an Honours Degree (French) from the University of London. Brother Casimir came to La Salle College in 1933, just one year after its establishment. From this time onwards, he spent 44 years here. This is an unbroken record. He was involved in all major events in the first four decades of the school. Brother Casimir started off as the Master of Class 2 (equivalent to Form 5). He took special interest in the establishment and development of the LSCOBA. He was the 2nd Vice-President and the Hon. President of the LSCOBA in 1960’s to 1970’s. Whenever he met an old boy, he would check whether he had joined the LSCOBA or not. Our strong foundation is in debt to his contribution and devotion. As with many Brothers, he had to leave for Indo-China (now called Vietnam) during the Japanese occupation. He was one of the architects, with Brother Cassian, who planned the re-establishment of the school after the war. He served diligently during the Perth Street era. In 1957, he was appointed Sub-Director and Vice Principal upon the death of Brother Cassian. Brother Casimir then witnessed the glorious return to La Salle Road in 1960. Brother Casimir became the 5th Principal and Director of La Salle College in 1965. He stayed in office for 6 years. Brother Casimir proved himself to be a teacher of merit and a wise administrator. He showed great energy and perseverance in teaching, sports administration, school magazine, Legion of Mary, etc. Being the longest serving Christian Brother of La Salle College, he is the right person to define the La Salle tradition which he identified as: “the tradition that stands for high academic standards, excellent moral tone and intelligent discipline” Mr. Christopher Wong (1967) of Chicago shared: “In 1965-6, Brother Casimir agreed to change the school blazer to black, after Maryknoll Convent School changed their uniforms. The universal Lasallian badge was allowed to replace the embroidered school badge.” On 10th May 1977, Brother Casimir died suddenly from a heart attack while in La Salle College. His students would remember him for his cheery disposition and capacity for hard work. The real secret of his success and popularity was his genuine unfailing kindness.
Biography
Brother Edmund John Burke was born on 21st May 1907 in England. He arrived in Hong Kong on 14th November 1934. He taught Class 2. He was murdered in Rangoon in 1958.