To his family he was simply Pappa, Daddy, Skat, Oupie!
A tribute to the late Johann van der Merwe who passed away on April 20 in his home at the Alberton Retirement Village
To many he was known as Mr Alberton, to others Oom Johann or Mr Van, but to his family he was simply Pappa, Daddy, Skat, Oupie!
Johann van der Merwe (83) passed away at his home in the Alberton Retirement Village in Verwoerdpark Alberton on Monday, April 20, leaving behind his two daughters, Corlia Olson and Anette Mogridge, son-in-law Stephan Mogridge, granddaughters Cheree Dowie and husband Derryn, Bronwyn Crawford and husband Ric, and great granddaughters Harlee and Emme Dowie.
Though his health deteriorated quite dramatically over the past two months, his passing has still come as a great shock to his family.
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“He was such a great man, such a formidable presence, it is almost unreal to think he is no longer with us,” said Anette and Corlia.
“More than all the accolades bestowed onto him, he was our dad, our rock in many troubled seas. We could always turn to him for the soundest and wisest advice. We will miss him dearly.
“There are so many people we want to thank for their kind assistance and prayers and thoughts over this time, it is difficult to mention all by name. We want them to know that we deeply appreciate all the kind messages and support.
“Because of the lockdown regulations, we are not in a position to plan a funeral, but will announce a date for a memorial service once the lockdown is over,” said the family.
God saw you getting tired,
A cure not meant to be.
So he put his arms around you and
Whispered,
‘Come with me’
With tearful eyes watched you and saw
You fade away
Although we loved you dearly
We could not make you stay
A golden heart stopped beating
Your tender hand at rest
God took you home to prove
To us he only takes the best.
ALSO READ: A sad farewell to Mr Alberton, Johann van der Merwe
