John ALABASTER Obituary

Fond memories of Jack teaching me maths in the 70s.
Not so fond memories of being caned by him on a few occasions.

As a teenager i had a deep respect for Jack as a teacher and as a man.

I will always remember his readings from the book of Don Camillo in the middle of the double maths period on a Friday and the sweep of his hand across his fringe as he reset his hair upon turning to face the class after scrawling on the board.

Thanks Jack for being you and an inspiration for a fledgling basketballer, land surveyor and storyteller.

Arohanui and our deepest sympathy to Shirley, John and Kathryn and their families. Jack gave me my first teaching position at KHS and that that trust I will always admire and respect him for. He helped shape the next 21 years. Haere ra Jack and thank you

To John and family,my thoughts are with you all at this sad time. A true Southland Sporting legend has moved on.

Condolences to Shirley and Family. I played many games of cricket with Jack for Southland Boys´ High, Southland and Otago. Jack you were a fine cricketer. Also you taught me well for Science and Maths. Farewell Jack. Bob Holloway.

Condolences to Shirley and family on your sad loss. We will all miss Jack more than words can say. I had to do the



Condolences to Shirley and the family on your sad loss. We will all miss Jack more than words can say. I had the pleasure of playing with Jack in a huge number of games for Southland and some for Otago. A tough but always fair competitor on the field always giving his best and expecting others to do the same. When the game was over he was more than happy to relax and if asked, to give his opinion.
If you scored some runs against him he was always the first to congratulate you afterwards while possibly planning the next encounter! In latter years he enjoyed his golf and played the same way as his cricket. I quickly worked out it was better to play with him than against him in all games. RIP Jack
K J O´Connor

the pleasure of playing with Jack in a huge number of games for Southland and some for Otago. A tough but always fair competitor on the field always giving his best and expecting others

To John and family please accept our deepest sympathy on the loss of your father
Past and present members of Cycling Southland

On behalf of the Southland Boys´ High School Old Boys´ Association I would like the express our sincere condolences to the Alabaster Family for the passing of Jack. Your family will have a tremendous number of positive reflections to recall about Jack as do decades of students who came under his care and teaching at Southland Boys´ High School.
His student number was 4099 and between 1944 to 1948 he was a prefect, member of the !st XV, !st X1 and 1st V, and a fives champion. He was appointed to the staff in 1954. He coached rugby, cricket and basketball. He was also a master in charge of Coldstream Hostel. Notably he was a very focussed and respected mathematics teacher. After transferring to other schools he returned to be Rector from 1981 to 1988.
Jack´s 1948 1st XV cap, his NZ Basketball blazer, NZ Cricket blazer and cap have been kindly donated to the school and are now proudly displayed in the School foyer.
Jack was a student, teacher, Rector , sportsman and man who contributed a truly significant amount to the legacy of our school.

Jim Watson
President
SBHS Old Boys´ Association

To Shirley and family,
We have many fond memories of Jack as Principal, Sportsman and most of all as a friend.
We recall with pleasure the happy times especially at SBHS and Queens Park. He will be remembered by so many with love and respect.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time..
Valerie and Owen Pierce

Shirley and Family. I was sorry to read that Jack has passed away. I have great memories of Jack as my maths teacher at Southland Boys High School and as a much respected cricket coach and team member of the first X1.