Fly with the angels, Robocop
Gerhard is survived by his wife, three children and two grandchildren.
The Primrose community and their CPF were overwhelmed with sadness after the death of Gerhard van der Westhuysen, known as Robocop, on January 14.
Primrose CPF chairperson Tracy Enslin said Gerhard was one of their CPF patrollers.
“Robocop was one of our most dedicated patrollers. He was passionate about community safety and was always available to patrol or assist with control, day or night.
“Gerhard was often the first to log on duty and the last to sign off,” said the chairperson.
His wife, Tracey, said he was a loving husband and a great man.
His two sons, Juan-Pierre and Christopher, added they are men today all thanks to him as he taught them a lot over the years.
His daughter, Nikita, said: “My father was an inspiration to many. He was a truthful man who loved supporting his community. He enjoyed being out on the road patrolling with the CPF and making sure our streets were safe.
“Despite his disability, he was treated no differently to others. He was truly loved.”
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According to the CPF chairperson, Gerhard only had one leg and was permanently on crutches.
“He never saw this as a disability and never let it stop him from assisting residents and patrolling our streets. He had a wonderful sense of humour and showed so much kindness,” she said.
His wife added that he will be remembered for his kindness, dedication, and determination and will be dearly missed by all his fellow CPF patrollers and residents that had the privilege to meet him.
“He has left a hole in our CPF family that will not be easy to fill,” the chairperson said.
“My father will forever be an inspiration to many,” said Nikita.
Gerhard is survived by his wife, three children, and two grandchildren.
Contact the newsroom by emailing:
Marietta Lombard (Editor) germistoncitynews@caxton.co.za, or (Journalists) Busi Vilakazi busiv@caxton.co.za , and Lebogang Sekgwama lebogangs@caxton.co.za.
