Our Founders

Who Are the Grantham Gators Founders

The Grantham Gators Founders are former students who attended Grantham High School in St. Catharines between 1977 and 1982. Bound by shared experiences, lifelong friendships, and a deep sense of pride in their school, this group came together years later to reflect on what it truly meant to be a Grantham Gator.

Although the initiative was founded by Curt Skene, it was quickly embraced by classmates who shared the same sobering realization. Far too many of their peers had passed away far too young. What began as reconnection and conversation evolved into a purpose-driven mission. Together, the group envisioned a way to honour fallen classmates with something lasting, respectful, and meaningful. The memorial benches stand as that tribute.

Under Curt's leadership, classmates from different graduating years stepped forward to help bring the Fallen Gators initiative to life. Each founder contributed in their own way through funding, time, skills, ideas, and resources, united by a shared belief that remembrance should lead to action. This is a true collective effort, built on mutual respect and a responsibility to honour those who are no longer with us.

While the number of Fallen Gators is deeply saddening, the founders chose a forward-looking focus. That commitment led to the creation of the Silent Angel Subsidy, extending the mission beyond remembrance and into impact. Funds generated through the benches are directed to support today's students where help is needed most, creating real and lasting change.