Tributes flow for Aussie teacher after tragic accident on school trip
Jonas Stoebe, 55, was with students when he sustained a severe brain injury. He died a week later.
A beloved Sydney school teacher has been remembered as a “wonderful husband and father” following his tragic and “extremely sudden” death.
Jonas Stoebe, the head of sport at Glenaeon Rudolf Steiner School, on the city’s Lower North Shore, was leading a snow tour with Year 9 and Year 11 students at Perisher earlier this month when he had a devastating accident, according to a GoFundMe created by friends.
On September 6, the 55-year-old crashed on a mountain and “sustained a catastrophic brain injury”. Heartbreakingly, the father of two young sons, aged 12 and 9, died on Wednesday, also leaving behind his “loving partner Belinda”.
Community rallies around grieving family
The couple’s community is now rallying around Jonas’ family as they “come to terms with the accident and gather to mourn this profound loss”.
“We recognise that in addition to the emotional toll, there are practical challenges that lie ahead for [his] young family,” the fundraiser, signed ‘friends and colleagues of Jonas Stoebe’, said.
So far, almost $250,000 has been raised to help with funeral costs, household expenses and raising the young boys.
“By contributing to this campaign, you will not only help Belinda with immediate costs but also to let Jonas’ family know how much he was loved and adored in our community, and as a way of giving back to a family who gifted so much of his life to the care, wellbeing and health of those he taught, worked with and played with.”
School's tribute to 'cherished' teacher
Dozens of grieving friends and family have posted tributes to the “incredible teacher and great friend”.
In a Facebook post on Thursday, Glenaeon Rudolf Steiner confirmed the “cherished” school member had passed away.
“Jonas was more than just an educator; he was a mentor, a friend, and an inspiration to all who knew him,” administrators wrote. “With unwavering dedication, Jonas had been part of our school community for 10 years, leaving an indelible mark on countless students' lives. Our school community is heartbroken by this loss.
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“We extend our deepest condolences to Jonas’ family, friends, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. The impact Jonas had on our school and the lives of our students is immeasurable, and his memory will forever remain in our hearts.”
In another online tribute, close friend Scotty Boombah said he was “incredibly thankful” for “so many years as friends, neighbours, teammates, fathers…”
“I must say I am a bit cranky with you but of course, I was always the cranky one. You were supposed to help me install my new washing machine this week,” he joked. “Shine on, you crazy diamond. There will never be another like you.”
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