Rakosa dies after long illness
Duduza - Ramangori Johannes ‘Dension’ Rakosa was born on October 5, 1948 in Charterstone.
He was the sixth son of the late Josiah Matlabe and Thale Francinah Rakosa.
As a lad, he started his primary education at Emzimkhulu Primary School where he completed his Grade Four. He then proceeded to Zakheni Higher Primary School where he did Grades Five to Eight.
After completing his schooling at Charterston Secondary School, he moved to Botshabelo, Bloemfontein. There he studied at Strydom Teachers Training College and received his Teachers Diploma.
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He went on to teach at Duduza Higher Primary.
From his childhood he had a love for football and tennis. As a sportsman he also did boxing.
He played for various football teams, including Nigel Mighty Rovers and Nigel United Buccaneers, among others. He was an all-rounder, from goal-keeping to attacking at mid-field.
He was given the nickname ‘Ace’ thanks to his dribbling skills.
Rakosa got married to Busisiwe Priscilla Rakosa (née Zwane) and they were blessed with three sons and two daughters.
“His passion for an outgoing life saw him buying combis where he created many memories with friends and family.
“It was during these years that his taste for the finer things in life was also displayed as was his dress sense and love of jazz.
“His preference for business is something that had also always been with him. As a young boy he sold convenience items, snacks and fruit to train commuters, and at various events at Mamba Stadium.
“During his teaching days his business insight and passion pushed him to be a full-time businessman,” says son Thabo Rakosa.
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As a staunch footballer he also founded Nigel Revivals FC, which kept many youngsters out of mischief because of their commitment to football.
He revived his membership as a staunch member of the congregation of the Uniting Reformed Church in Duduza during the difficult times of the church. It was his resolution to be an active congregant and to support the church programmes.
Rakosa died last Friday after a long illness.
