Teacher 'dedicated his life to helping others'

French teacher, rugby coach and scout leader Jonathan Gander "dedicated his life to helping others"

A popular teacher has been described as a "kind and gentle soul who taught with great passion" following his sudden death at the age of 45 last week.

Jonathan Gander, a keen rugby coach and scout leader, was a French teacher at Werneth School in Stockport, Greater Manchester.

In a tribute posted on social media following his death from a suspected heart attack on 21 October, the school said Mr Gander would be remembered for his "kindness, positivity and ability to make us smile - qualities that made him truly special".

One of his Year 8 students wrote in French: "Merci d'etre un professeur formidable et gentil" which translates as "Thank you for being a wonderful and kind teacher".

'Gentle giant'

Acting head teacher Rhiannon Chantler said: "We have lost a much-loved teacher, colleague and friend.

"Jonathan Gander was a wonderful person; he was a rugby coach and scout leader outside of school and committed his time to so many worthy causes and people.

"I want to pay tribute to a wonderful man. He was a kind soul, a gentle giant and a man of decency.

"I know our staff and student body will feel this loss for a long time and I want to thank them all very publicly.

"Staff have dealt with this in a truly professional manner at the most difficult of times and students have been nothing but respectful and kind."

The school said it had been flooded with hundreds of messages which will be collated into a book of condolence for Mr Gander's family.

A moment of silence was held by the school's Year 11 football team during a match on Thursday.

'Dedicated to others'

Away from work, Mr Gander had been a member of the Didsbury Old Bedians club for nearly 10 years.

They said they were now raising money to "honour Jon's life and show solidarity".

The club said: "It is a shocking loss for us all and particularly for his family and wife Yoyo.

"Jon was a cherished member of our rugby community: he loved playing rugby for Old Bedians RUFC, participating in all aspects of club life.

"He played touch and contact rugby and coached throughout the junior section.

"He even worked the bar and mowed the pitches. In 2023, Jon's dedication was recognised by Lancashire RFU and he was awarded Volunteer of the Year.

"Jon dedicated his life to helping others - particularly young people as a teacher and as a Scout Leader at 23rd Stretford Scouts.

"He volunteered at the recent Women's Rugby World Cup and regularly supported the Looseheadz rugby mental health charity.

"He gave so much to other people and now we want to give something back."