Loved ones and Benonians mourn the sudden deaths of cyclists Janine Hopkins and Frans Duys who were knocked by a taxi that skipped the traffic light on the corner of Electron and Isando roads on November 30.
Janine died on impact while Frans succumbed to his injury in the ambulance on his way to the hospital.
According to the Alberton Union Hospital, he sustained a major head injury, with broken legs, back and arms.
Janine and Frans lived in Benoni and Boksburg their whole lives. They were born and bred in Benoni.
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“Everybody in and around Benoni and Boksburg knew them. They both made a huge impact on everyone’s lives from cycling to school to family,” said Gayle Leslie, a friend of both cyclists for over 20 years.
Janine was the deputy principal at Boksburg High School, a well-respected educator and was often described as an absolute ray of sunshine by the people who knew her.
Frans was the owner of Tour De Frans Cycles for 29 years. He also owned Duster TDG. He was well-known for his cycling, and always helped others.
“There was never a dull moment when you were in the company of these two amazing people. They were such inspirations to everyone who knew them,” said Gayle.
Frans was known as the dad of cycling, the most safety conscious person you could meet.
“We all remember him by the whistle coming up to a robot to watch out for cars. We never felt as safe cycling as we did when we were with him.
“How they went was and is totally heartbreaking, knowing how safe Frans was and how he took care of all of us.
A mass memorial ride in their honor will be held on Saturday, December 7.
Everyone wishing to join in is welcome. The meeting spot will be Tour De Frans shop, 1 Atlas Road, Boksburg at 5.30am.
There will be a second memorial ride for which the dates is still to be confirmed.
