Students, co-workers and many other people in Milford are mourning the loss of Dr. Ray Bauer.
Dr. Bauer, the Principal of Milford High School, died suddenly Saturday night after exercising.
He was 63.
Superintendent Dr. Robert Farrell said high school assistant principals called each faculty member to break the news on Sunday.
The district sent out information through its automated notification system to alert the rest of staff and families.
In a press release, Dr. Farrell said, "Ray was a principal where students came first. He always made himself available to students to help them. That's why he became a principal--it was all about the kids. I've never seen a principal have such a personal connection with his students--especially in a school the size of Milford High School. At graduation this year, he had something nice to say and a hug for each student. He was amazing."
The school will have its Crisis Intervention Team available at the school starting in the media center on Monday for any students who need support.
His family is making arrangements for his funeral.
Principal Bauer came to Milford High School in 2003.
Five years later in 2008, he was named Administrator of the Year by The Ohio Association Of Student Councils.
His students nominated him for the distinguished award because of the enormous amount of respect they had for him.
"Just everyone in the school really liked him. I didn't know anyone that spoke bad of him or didn't like him. He was really friendly to all the students. Just a good guy," said Student Matt Richwine.
"Milford has lost more than they will ever know. I felt safe with my kids coming to school. He was approachable. The kids respected him. He just was wonderful. I'm in shock. Its just horrible. I don't know how they are going to fill his shoes," said Tammy Schultz, a Milford High School Parent.
Milford High School students will begin Monday morning with a memorial service at 7am for their beloved principal.
There will be a crises intervention team on hand as well as six extra substitute teachers to help students and staff on Monday.
On Sunday night, students tearfully gathered at Miami Meadows Park.
"He was always there for us whenever we needed him. He was always telling us how proud he was of us and he was just so nice to everybody," said Chelsea Nelson, a student.
"He was always at the front door to welcome and shake every students hand and he always had a smile," said Mercedes Banks, Milford graduate. "He was hands down the best principal ever."
Back in February of 2009, 9News captured a moment with Dr. Bauer as he honored then senior Brad Theilman as student of the week.
"For all the reasons for what you do around here and who you are, WCPO, student of the week," said Dr. Ray Bauer.
The pat on the arm at the end was one his trademarks.
Its obvious to see he touched the lives of many by the outpour of emotion by students on Sunday night.
As they gathered in a circle, each student took a step forward sharing how Dr. Bauer made a difference.
"He was really the whole reason I was in high school to be honest. I'm going to stick it out and finish it out just for him," said James Banks, a student.
On Monday, students will wear red and white ribbons, Milford's school colors.
They'll be a symbol of pride for a man who was proud to be their principal.
"I know I'll think of him every single time I think of Milford and every time I want something done, I'll think oh Dr. Bauer will be proud of me for doing that," said Katie Haney, a student.
A fund has been established in Dr. Bauer's name at the school. In lieu of flowers, the family and district ask that you make a donation to the scholarship. Make the check payable to: Milford High School- Ray Bauer Memorial Scholarship. You can send them to: Milford High School, 1 Eagles Way, Milford Ohio 45150
Students are having a special celebration of Dr. Bauer's life on Thursday evening. A picnic and social will begin at 7:00pm at Milford High School's football stadium. Afterwards, at 8:30pm, a more formal memorial celebration will begin. Dr. Bauer's family members will be there to meet the students.
The visitation and memorial service will be held on Saturday September 5th at the Faith United Methodist Church in West Chester. Visitation will be from 9am to 11am. A memorial service will be held at 11am.
