Thank you, Mr. Ruppert!

For 42 years, Tom Ruppert dedicated his life to Concordia Lutheran School. And on May 23rd, Concordia gave back to him.

From gifts of sentiment to gifts of song, people of all ages crowded into the gym to pay tribute to a man who has taught math, religion and health, as well as served as athletic director and assistant principal. There were few dry eyes in the house as people shared memories and applause for nearly an hour.

Teaching more than 1,600 students over the last four decades, Mr. Ruppert has touched many lives — including one special visitor who returned for this special celebration. NBA player Shaun Livingston first met Tom Ruppert when he was just a kindergarten student. In spite of Shaun’s successes, returning to Concordia to have his jersey retired was a humbling experience for him.

And by the way... The gym that everyone crowded into will now be known as Thomas Ruppert Gymnasium. Congratulations!

Click here to view the story from WEEK/WHOI.

Click here to view a slideshow of moments from the ceremony.

Click here to read the story from the Journal Star.