John Stupka, ISKL’s long-time Ceramics and Visual Arts teacher, passed away on Sunday, July 18. He had celebrated his 80th birthday only the week before.
John was much loved by so many ISKL students and their families over the years, until his retirement in 2018, and continued to be an active member of the ISKL community even in retirement. He began his ISKL career in 1977 at ISKL’s Ampang campus. During his 41-year ISKL career, John taught Visual Arts and Ceramics in the High School, along with after-school and weekend community ceramics classes.
Many students, parents, staff and faculty fondly remember John’s big heart and his ceramics studio which was open to all; often a place of refuge where those who entered were able to experience the healing power of art. John made time on evenings and weekends, for students and adults to create art, connect, and laugh. In his presence one never felt evaluated or judged, only empowered, free, and ‘at home’. John’s presence brought happiness to any space. We will miss him dearly.
John retired on 31July 2018, before ISKL moved to its Ampang Hilir campus; however, he continued to support our community as our go-to framing expert, and an amazing receptacle of stories about learning and ISKL. He will always hold a special place in our history. We send our sincere condolences to his family and will always remember John as a true ISKL panther.
Thank you to Karen Palko, Andrew Smith (‘05), Amanda Soo (‘20), Jo Tilton, Rosemary Chin, Tim Howe, Kasim Abas, and Rami Madani who spoke during the moving tribute on Saturday July 31, 2021, and for so beautifully capturing the personality and impact of John Stupka.
If you were unable to attend, the video is available to view here.
View the tribute slideshow, and add your own photos, videos and memories of John here – John Stupka Remembered.
