At the age of 21, John Ruptash enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). He served during WW2 as a Flight Navigator and Instructor, achieving the rank of Flight Lieutenant. Following his military service, he embarked on a distinguished career of study, research, and teaching in Aeronautical Engineering. John was born in Hairy Hill, Alberta, and taught at a one-room rural schoolhouse before graduating from the University of Alberta with high distinction in Engineering Physics. He earned his Masters of Applied Science and Doctor of Philosophy in Aeronautical Engineering at the University of Toronto. Research in fluid mechanics and aerodynamics led him to the National Research Council and Defence Research Board in Ottawa. As a faculty member at Carleton University, his leadership, expertise and vision were a driving force in the development of the Engineering, Graduate Studies and Architecture programs. As Dean of Engineering, he oversaw the newly-constructed engineering building: with bunker-like windows, it was nicknamed, “Fort Ruptash”. A man of immense drive, integrity and pride, John Ruptash passed away in 1974.