The first time I met John Jarpe, he was interviewing for the position of superintendent of Brandywine Community Schools.

The board of education had invited some students to participate in the interviews, interested in a younger perspective. At that point in the process, the board had already gone through one round of interviews — there were a handful of qualified candidates, but none who really stood out.

Determined to find the right fit, rather than the easiest one, the board voted to go back to the drawing board — and the Brandywine school district is lucky they did.

Dr. Jarpe wasn’t five minutes into his interview when the expressions on the audience members’ faces began to brighten. Although the board had interviewed plenty of talented individuals with accolades and certifications up the wazoo, all were lacking the one trait that set the administrator apart.

He was a Bobcat.

I have many fond memories with Dr. Jarpe (well into my adult life, it is still difficult to call him “John”).

When I graduated high school, he attended my graduation party, armed with tickets to the University of Michigan’s home opener. The Wolverines were playing my future alma mater, Western Michigan University, the Friday before my undergrad classes began. Although the Broncos got their tails kicked, it is still one of my favorite college memories.

Throughout high school, Dr. Jarpe would send newspaper clippings to students whenever they made the newspaper, a kind gesture that made students featured feel like celebrities, reminding us that he valued the work we were doing academically and athletically.

After college, I had the pleasure of working with Dr. Jarpe when he sent his columns, and going back to my old stomping grounds to chat with him at board of education meetings and special Brandywine events.

Last month, I was moved to tears as members of the community recounted all that Dr. Jarpe has accomplished as he was awarded the Four Flags Chamber of Commerce’s Lifetime Achievement Award. I can’t think of an individual in this community more deserving of the honor.

During his tenure as Brandywine’s superintendent, the district saw the completion of a brand new track and football stadium, the addition of Lake Michigan College at Brandywine, improved test scores, Blue Ribbon school recognition and countless successful graduates.

The Class of 2017 was wise to choose Dr. Jarpe as the keynote speaker for graduation Sunday. Throughout his speech, Dr. Jarpe reminded folks of the champions in their lives who helped them earn their high school diplomas.

He said single mothers are champions because they put in the effort — without the help of a partner — to make sure their children are successful.

He commended the parent who drives a beat up used car to work, a sacrifice that enables him to save money for his child’s college tuition.

He recognized teachers as champions, for all the long hours and extra effort off the clock that often goes unnoticed.

Dr. Jarpe mentioned a long list of other champions, from siblings and mentors, principals and athletes, and of course, the graduates turning their tassels Sunday.

Dr. Jarpe has strong community spirit and rarely missed sporting events. Despite his quiet demeanor, he was a fearless advocate for children, and when it came to standing up for what he believed in, he took lawmakers to task for decisions that negatively impacted students and teachers. He is a cheerleader and supporter for all students and staff, and a friend to those who needed one.

Dr. Jarpe was a true champion, and he will be missed in Bobcat Land.

Ambrosia Neldon is the general manager at Leader Publications. She can be reached by phone at (269) 687-7700, or by email at ambrosia.neldon@leaderpub.com.