Shown at the canoe dedication in memory of Byron Oswald, from left, are Geoff Walmer, Wawasee High School principal; and Oswald family members: Slater Oswald, Brandon Oswald, Tammy Oswald, Chelsea Oswald, and Byron Oswald Jr. InkFreeNews Photo by Renea Salyer, Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber Director.

News Release

SYRACUSE — The family of Byron Oswald and Wawasee High School Principal, Geoff Walmer dedicated a canoe in memory of Byron Oswald Saturday, July 31, at door No. 6 at Wawasee High School. The same door Byron Oswald used to come to his office every day for 27 years.

Memorial funds from Byron’s funeral were sent to Wawasee High School in his memory. Walmer and administrative assistant, Shelly Judy thought it would be most fitting to use the funds to sponsor a canoe from the Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber’s red canoe project. Instead of red, it was requested the canoe be painted gold like Wawasee High School colors and it to be placed where he spent most of his time at the school.

During the dedication ceremony, Walmer gave a short speech and read quotes from Judy, “Byron was the hardest worker I know, but would always take time to talk with you and make you laugh.” He then went on to share how much Oswald meant to all he met, quoting Alan Frank, former WHS principal, “Byron was all about giving and serving. He sacrificed so much for the good of others. He always put others before himself. He unconditionally met the needs of the teachers and staff of this school and me personally.”

Many knew Oswald from his years managing 3 Flags Drive-In in Syracuse, where he met his wife, Tammy. Walmer ended the ceremony by thanking his family for sharing him with the school for so many years.