Students pay their respects for Kolbe teacher

Kolbe Catholic College students, alumni, staff and friends gathered in their hundreds at Dowling Street in Rockingham on Monday evening to pay their respects to popular teacher Ali Buckner, who died on March 13.

Students told stories and paid tribute to the Loyola House co-ordinator, who was well-known at the college for his dedication to the faction, funny stories and unique personality, principal Robyn Miller said.

Ms Miller said Mr Buckner, who taught maths and career and enterprise, was a special person whose generous, positive spirit had brought joy to staff and students for more than 18 years.

She said his exuberant personality and penchant for fancy dress - always in Loyola purple - had become the stuff of legend.

"Ali was so generous, he was at every camp, every cheer squad, everything that required charisma.

"He was a very special person and the kids absolutely loved him.

"Lots of people come in and out of our lives, but Ali was one who came into my life, never left and never will leave."

Year 12 leader Steven Thomas said Mr Buckner never wore the same costume twice and students looked forward to seeing what he would come up with next.

He said in-school pantomimes written by and often starring Mr Buckner were a highlight of Kolbe Day.

"He dressed up as Stig from Top Gear, Father Christmas and a reindeer," he said. "I will never forget Mr Buckner wearing Lycra to walk round to the outdoor pool for our swimming carnival."

Loyola House captain Abby Barnden said Mr Buckner was known for his jokes during morning pastoral care sessions and famed for his Loyola cheer: "Orang-utan! Orang-utan! Ooh! Aah!".

The 17-year-old said students had set up a tribute to the teacher at a Year 12 common area within the college.

Ms Miller said Mr Buckner retired from the school last year after he was diagnosed with cancer of the kidneys. Students formed a guard of honour for the teacher when he returned for a final farewell in June last year.