A true hero of Van Dyk Park passes away
Apart from giving daily words of inspiration and prayer, Barend Botes also manned the communication system of the Community Policing Initiative, based in Van Dyk Park, on a 24-hour basis for the last five years.
Pastor Barend Botes (57), a well-known resident of Van Dyk Park, died on May 13, 2019.
He leaves behind Ansa Mostert (partner of six years), along with children George, Daleen and Barend Jnr and grandchildren Gaby and Shayleigh.
According to his daughter, Daleen de Roubaix, Barend will be deeply missed by all.
Barend was the pastor of Ope Lig Dienste in Van Dyk Park.
“The ministry he established has provided a safe haven and sanctuary to all members of the community. Giving self-respect, encouragement and spiritual growth to an ever-supportive and loyal congregation,” said Daleen.
“As also the founder of his NPO, Bethlehem House of Bread, Barend has blessed more than 250 households, churches and children on a weekly basis.
“Being involved in outreach programs like popup soup kitchens to giving the elderly much needed attention and delectable Easter eggs was only a pleasure for Barend and his team of motivated and inspired philanthropist.”
She said Barend joined Jesus Is Lig as a Sunday school teacher where his ministry began.
“He then completed a four year course at Elkanah Bible College where he obtained distinctions in all his subjects and graduated with honours to be inducted as a pastor.
She said the absence of Barend’s presence on the radio has left a gaping hole that keeps a distraught community speechless.
“His legacy will live on through each individual he has blessed and prayed for, his charity organisations that will continue to bless others for many years to come and the avenues of Van Dyk Park that has lost one of its most prominent pillars.”
“The amount of support and well wishes that have poured in the last couple of days is a testament to the impact Barend has had on the lives of so many people and to the extraordinary life this monumental man of God has lived.”
A memorial service will be held at the Van Dyk Park Piazza Shopping Centre on May 18 from 5pm onwards to commemorate and celebrate the life of Barend. All are welcome.
Contact Alida Jordaan on 083 424 7865 for more information.
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