Our Saint Viator High School community mourns the loss of one of our own, and one of our very best teachers, Brother Robert C. Ruhl, C.S.V., who died suddenly on February 2, 2008.

Brother Ruhl believed that being a teacher was a noble and honorable profession; something to which he dedicated his entire life.  He believed that education of the mind, mastery of the English language and writing, exposure to the classics of literature and poetry could be used to teach the lessons of life that young people need.  In the literally hundreds of personal tributes offered by his students on the Saint Viator High School website and on Facebook, they spoke of how Brother Ruhl was uniquely able to use not only literature, grammar, writing and poetry, but also his interest in music, theatre, movies and trivia to reveal the mysteries of life, the values of the Gospel, and the lessons we need as we grow and mature in life.  This outpouring of fond memories and overwhelming support offered by so many represents a dramatic validation of his vocation and the Viatorian mission.

Since Brother Ruhl’s unexpected passing, many alumni and current and past parents have made unsolicited gifts in his memory to Saint Viator High School’s Tuition Assistance Endowment.  As of April 9, 2008, gifts have been received totaling $15,468.00 In support of these efforts, an anonymous donor has come forward and generously offered to match any and all contributions for this purpose up to $25,000.