Local firefighter loses his life to Covid-19

The firefighter will be remembered for his bravery and the love he had for his family

August 11, 2020

Tayla Smit 2 minutes read

Crew commander Renier Nel recently lost his fight against Covid-19 and will be dearly missed.

“He leaves a massive void that can never be truly filled again.”

This is according to Tony Stacey, a colleague and family spokesperson of the crew commander Renier Nel, who lost his fight against Covid-19 on August 3.

He served the community of Boksburg and Ekurhuleni as a firefighter and paramedic with pride, valor and dignity for over 26 years, and was stationed at Leon Ferreira Fire Station in Boksburg.

Stacey said Nel was constantly confronting danger, yet reluctant to accept credit for himself.

“His only thoughts were for the safety of others. He stood for what he believed in and never backed down. Some would call it stubborn, but if he wasn’t the loudest voice, it wasn’t worth fighting for,” he said. “Renier was an accomplished scuba diver and a great lover of the seas and oceans, always talking about how we should be taking more care of them. As a rescue swimmer, he trained hard and was always focused.”

He added Nel was also skilled in high-angle rope rescue and was never fearful of heights, adding he was a true asset to any team.

“Another one of his services was his unwavering dedication to helping schools as a paramedic standby – a task which he took very seriously. He ensured each child was cared for and treated properly. He would spend hours next to the rugby fields, netball courts and other events to diligently ensure a watchful eye was looking after the children. He was also on the school governing body for Laerskool Westwood.”

Stacey emphasised Nel’s proudest achievements are his daughters, Nialé and Zelandri.

“He always bragged about them. He was such a proud father and his goal in life was to build a better future for his family. Renier loved his wife, Aletta, and his brother, Riaan, and his parents, Fred and Belinda,” he said. “His loss will be felt in the most profound way.”

Laerskool Westwood expressed their condolences to Renier’s loved ones and is inviting the public to tie ribbons at the school’s gate in his honour. There was also be a drive-in tribute for the crew commander at Westwood on August 7.

Stacey said the local fire station also paid tribute to him on August 6 and that there would be a private service for his family, as per the Covid-19 regulations.