In Loving Memory of Colin Mackay

The world had forever changed on Thursday, July 2nd. Colin Leslie Mackay died doing what he loved - riding a motorcycle. He was many things to many people: a life-partner, son, brother, uncle, friend, teacher, writer, poet, actor, bartender and world-adventurer. His infectious, vibrant energy inspired all those around him. He loved life and seized every moment.

Colin was a man of many passions, and teaching was definitely one of them. It brought him great joy and satisfaction to see his students thrive and overcome adversity. Throughout his teaching career, Colin taught many subjects, but his underlying message was the one of love and kindness. He didn’t tolerate abuse and discrimination, and took an active approach to tackle bullying. He deeply cared about the ROCKSOLID program that combines two things he was most ardent about, anti-bullying and Fine Arts. 

ROCKSOLID is the first New Westminster Seconday School (NWSS) anti-bullying initiative. NWPD and the NWSS Drama and Writing classes work together to spread “Drama Love” and build bully-free communities. Every year the NWSS Drama Production Team puts on an anti-bullying play. The hope is that through these plays students will recognize themselves in characters and story lines and reach out for help. Victims and bystanders are encouraged to stand ROCKSOLID together, talk to their families, friends, counselors, teachers, coaches and administrators.

From January 2011 until June 2013 Colin Mackay took over the ROCKSOLID program.  He impacted New Westminster students and staff with his gifts of passion, personality, creativity, inspiration, drive, fearlessness, mastery of language, his true ability to connect with people, and above all his huge heart. In 2014, Colin moved to Lord Kelvin Elementary where he included the ROCKSOLID messages in his teachings and brought his students to every new show.

This fundraiser is set up in loving memory of Colin with all money collected being donated to the NWSS ROCKSOLID program. Moreover, all proceeds from Colin’s novel “Remote” from July 2nd, onward will also be donated to ROCKSOLID. Paper books can be purchased at the Memorial Gathering on Tuesday, July 14th at the Roadhouse, 670 Smithe St. at Granville St. Books will be sold at $20 even, please bring cash if you wish to purchase a copy. Alternately, books can be purchased in-stores or online on Amazon  or Chapters .