#JourneyTo100Years: First Miss Benoni dies age 85
Susan and Martin lived in the same house in Northmead for over 50 years, and they knew each other for more than 70 years.
The first Miss Benoni, Susan Bekker (nee Dyssel), who was crowned in 1954, died on April 16 at the age of 85.
She had lived in Northmead with her husband for over five decades.
According to her granddaughter, Tania Dekker, Susan was born in Oudshoorn. Her eldest brother and his best friend, Martin Bekker, found employment in the East Rand and decided to move.
It was not long after that the entire Dyssel family relocated.
Martin Bekker was treated as one of the children in the Dyssel household and Susan was only ten years old when they first met.
“Martin always knew that Susan will one day become his wife,” Tania said. “Gran won the Miss Benoni pageant at the age of 18. She was immensely proud of the fact that the mayor at the time, Morris Nestadt, personally congratulated her!
“She married Martin shortly thereafter and they were blessed with three daughters, Lynette, Jenny and Madeleine, and a son, Marius, who unfortunately died 32 years ago.”
Susan and Martin lived in the same house in Northmead for over 50 years, and they knew each other for more than 70 years at the time he died in 2019.
She continued living in their home until her death.
“My gran will be remembered as a devoted wife, wonderful mother and an even better grandmother. She had a giving nature and would have given her last to those in need.
“Gran deeply loved Jesus Christ and never hesitated to talk about her religious beliefs.
“She was known for her wit, generous spirit, kind heart, ‘directness’ and unconditional love for her family and friends. Cooking, knitting, gardening, crossword puzzles and watching tennis were just some of the hobbies she enjoyed.”
A memorial service was held in Benoni on April 22 where family and friends celebrated her life.
Susan is survived by her daughters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and one brother.
“We feel honoured and privileged to have had you in our life. You always loved us unconditionally and your memories will be cherished in our hearts forever,” Tania said.
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