The Capital Journal
(Salem, Marion County, Oregon USA) Oct. 24, 1947
1925 - William
Ewaliko - 2018
The student from Hawaii was a visitor from
another country/land in 1947. Hawaii
was granted statehood on August 21, 1959
Mr. Ewaliko a person to remember! His list of LIFE’s accomplishments is
something to behold. I am honored to
have been one of his students at Gervais Hi; the building is now an elementary
school.
Sports and Mr. Ewaliko were synonymous from the time he got
off the plane and joined Willamette University. After graduation in 1954, he was offered a
job at the Gervais School District; his assignment P.E. teacher and coach. He also volunteered at McLaren School for
Boys.
This mix of contact with students, parents and community
motivated Mr. Ewaliko to also serve in the local city council. Early in his career, he learned how the blend
of education, sports, families and city government were inter-related. He became a strong local figure. He knew every student in the school, saw the
parents/families at and off the field and was always surrounded by students;
popular? More than that! “Teacher and
Coach Ewaliko” became well known locally, as well as, at the state level. It is safe to assert that he was the only
Hawaii born teacher. In fact, Hawaii had
not obtained statehood when he got his new teaching job in 1954.
Twenty years separated Mr. Ewaliko and me. I wanted to be in sports but due to my age (one
year beyond the mark) I did not qualify to participate. My consolation to this dilemma—he told me to
get some of the athletes into shape; so, I did my best.
The Gervais Community and the teaching profession is honored
to have had such a “Champion.” A person
for all seasons..and all the sports! William Ewaliko “Bill!”
I am honored to be part of his path and humbled and honored
to be alive to express my gratitude. I
am certain that the Gervais Alumni feel the same—WE ALL THANK YOU!
While Mr. Ewaliko enjoyed a long life, the passing of a LOVED
one is always difficult. My CONDOLENCES
TO THE FAMILY.
Miguel A.
Salinas Gervais Hi Grad-1966
ConAMISTAD-with-Friendship
Jan.
19, 2019
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