Sad farewell to another friend

ANOTHER of Berea Mail’s friends, Umbilo’s George Mitchley, passed away after recent ill health in the early hours of Friday morning, 17 July.

Berea Mail featured an article about George and his partner, Lyn McIlvaney, in 2017, highlighting their charity work. The couple were fundis at collecting unwanted rubbish, including aluminium tops from wine bottles, bottle tops, bread tags and newspaper, all for a good cause.

George came up with the idea to start collecting these items when he felt he would like to do something for charity. Since the early 2000s, he has been collecting bottle tops, which he sold to a scrap dealer. He donated the money raised to the SA Guide Dog Association where it was used, along with other donations, to train guide dogs. Lyn joined George in his project in 2006. Newspaper was handed to their church, St Cyprian’s Church, and the bread tags were handed in at Spar to help raise money for wheelchairs.

READ RELATED: Some people’s rubbish is others’ treasure

The couple met in the mid 70s through their passion for the game of darts. As Springbok dart players, they played mixed doubles together in 1982 in a tournament in the UK and at the end of that year, in Hawaii. They have been together for 14 years.

“George was a wonderful man. I never saw him ever hurt or upset anyone or talk badly about anyone. He was so loved. Even the homeless we used to see on our daily walks have asked after him and were saddened to hear of his death. The only time we ever argued was when he thought he was right, but then he would always give in!” Lyn said.

George was also a keen bowls player, and was a MOTH with Rhumbelow Shellhole for many years.

Speaking about his Papa (grandfather), Reece Meiring, who lives with Lyn and George in their home in Umbilo, said: “He was a man that filled the gaps in everyone’s lives, as a husband, father and friend. He was loved by so many. He hardly made his presence known, but his absence will be forever felt.”

George is survived by his two sons George Jnr and David and daughter Karen, and grandchildren.

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