Born on 28 September 1940 in Steynsburg, Eastern Cape, he completed his schooling in Vereeniging at the age of 18.
Botha graduated from Potchefstroom University. His journalism career started in 1963 and he occupied the positions of assistant editor, news editor and as a political correspondent for leading daily newspapers, prior to embarking on a career path in developmental communications and marketing.
He spent the last decade of his life focusing on his primary vocation as a writer.
In 1978, Botha won the Award for Enterprising Journalism in National Newspapers for a project which led to the release from prison of Dr Nthato Motlana and late editor of The Sowetan, Aggrey Klaaste, when they were held without trial in the aftermath of the 1976 Soweto uprising.
He authored a venison recipe book, which is currently being printed. He was also editor of an online conservation hunters’ newsletter, Pot-Shot, a recipe newsletter What2Cook, as well as an industry newsletter for retired journalists.
Botha loved to read and was an avid golfer. He cherished time spent with his family and was a dedicated husband, father, brother, grandfather and friend. He will be remembered for his wonderful sense of humor and a spirit that transcended adversity.
He is survived by his wife, Elna, and his daughters Lani Botha, Anita Stohr and Elmi Botha, who all live in Johannesburg.
A memorial service will be held at the Dutch Reformed Church Vergesig, 43 Putney Way, Brixton on 26 July at 12pm.
