The Robert MacMurray Memorial Bursary Fund

Rob MacMurray was born and raised in Saint John and was a well-loved friend, teammate, teacher, and dedicated Toronto Maple Leafs fan.  Sadly he lost his 15 month battle with cancer in August of 2018 at the age of 47.

The Robert MacMurray Memorial Bursary Fund has been established by his family and friends to support former Island View Elementary students when they graduate from high school and have been accepted as a full-time student at a post-secondary educational institution.

Rob understood the value of an education and was persistent in his own pursuit of his Education Degree while dealing with the financial challenges most students face.  For this reason the bursary will be awarded each year to students who have demonstrated perseverance to succeed, a solid work ethic, leadership qualities, community involvement, and would benefit from the financial assistance as opposed to being solely based on academics.

The award is currently available to graduates of Harbour View and Saint John High but as funding goals are achieved the bursary fund will establish additional awards. The ultimate goal is to have an award in Rob’s name at each of the four Saint John area high schools. We therefore continue to ask friends of Rob, members of the Island View community, as well as anyone whose life has been touched by cancer to give generously.

Rob was a teacher at Island View Elementary School for 13 years, spending the last 10 as the Physical Education Specialist. To honour Rob’s life and time at the school, the gym has been proudly named the “Robert MacMurray Gymnasium“. Prior to his passing the idea of naming the gym after him was shared with Rob and he was delighted by the thought of his name being forever associated with the school and his classroom.

This plaque also hangs at the entrance to the gym:

Rob had many interests throughout his life. He especially enjoyed antique cars, music, curling, hockey and being a player/manager for the Little John’s softball team. In 2015, Rob once again demonstrated his perseverance and work ethic by training and successfully completing the Mont-Tremblant Ironman.

Over the coming months and years this fund and web page will continue to accept donations and be a permanent tribute to Rob.

Donation Options:

Online
This online donation portal (CanadaHelps) accepts credit card and PayPal.

Cheques can be mailed to:
The Robert MacMurray Memorial Bursary Fund
c/o The Greater Saint John Community Foundation
PO Box 20061 Brunswick Square
Saint John, NB E2L 5B2

In person Monday – Friday 9am-4pm at:
89 Canterbury St. Suite 502
Saint John, NB

Note: All donations are tax deductible and will receive a receipt.