Bill Lovell, who has died aged 77, dedicated over 40 years of his life to excellence in education. A respected, much-loved and inspirational educator, Bill touched the lives of thousands of children.

‘Mr. Bill’ as he was known to his students, will long be remembered for the beneficial impact he had on their lives and his fervent and enthusiastic support for early years education. Reflecting on his career in June 2022, Bill told GstaadLife: “When Sandy and I started the JFK, we were young and enthusiastic and wanted children to see school as a place where they wanted to be and could learn how to learn.” He also encouraged the children to develop a global point of view – so they could “try to think a little bit about how the other guy thinks” – a skill that would serve them well beyond their school days. It is therefore fitting that on the news of his passing, tributes poured in from around the globe: ‘Our beloved Mr. Bill’ was a "role model human being" who "touched so many people’s lives and was such an important part of the community. What a pleasure it was to know him. He will be missed." Bill led by example, encouraging the students to become lifelong learners. He was "tough and strict when deserved and caring when needed."

Bill was kind, committed and generous with his time. He delighted in catching up with ex-Kennedy students around town, and on Facebook, and would ask about them long after they had graduated. He took pride in their achievements. And he never forgot their names.

William Merritt Lovell was born in Toronto, Canada, on 26 January 1945.
In 1970, he and his wife Sandy began teaching at the John F. Kennedy School. Within a year they were responsible for running the institution until 2011.

After retirement Bill continued to live a full life. A devoted grandfather, he could often be seen walking and biking around the Saanenland, with a broad grin and a cheery wave. He remained closely associated with the Kennedy School and in February 2022 led its 50th anniversary celebrations.

Although unwell for a few months, Bill appeared to be on his way back – hiking, biking and swimming again – before sadly passing away at the Inselspital Hospital in Bern. A celebration of life was held in the Saanen Church, followed by a reception in the garden of the Kennedy School on 22 July.

Bill is survived by Sandy, his children Bryce (Victoria) and Alison (Ryan), and grandchildren Ava, Sadie, Jack, Sam and Sloan.

Bill Lovell, born 26 January 1945, died 13 July 2022.

ANNA CHARLES
 

THE MR. BILL JFK SCHOLARSHIP FUND

The ‘Mr. Bill JFK Scholarship Fund’ is being created in Bill’s memory. Funded by donations from JFK friends, families and alumni, this scholarship will support students in their journey at JFK whose families cannot afford the costs associated with receiving a JFK education. It will recognise students who have demonstrated good academic achievement as well as involvement in a range of extracurricular activities and who thus will contribute positively to the Kennedy School community.
Donations of any amount are welcome and will have a large impact on the lives of deserving students. Contributions can be made to the Mr. Bill JFK Scholarship Fund, Saanen Bank, 3792 Saanen.

IBAN CH 93 0634 2725 1141 4467 5 | SWIFT RBABCH22342 | Donation Bill Lovell