Martin leaves a void in the community

Tragedy has hit Vryheid Hospice with the passing of Martin Beukes (45). Martin was part of Hospice for the past 11 years and was responsible for the bookshop. He was a true born-and-bred Vryheider who started out as a volunteer and later became an irreplaceable asset to the organisation. Hospice ladies Cecilia and Linda both say that Martin had such a vast knowledge of books. He knew the authors’ background and the genres of each author. In many ways, he was the face of Hospice. He was a friendly and sincere person – everyone knew Martin and everyone loved him. He was a bookworm who read from daylight to sundown. “Some days, someone would pop in to buy a book and an hour later, they would still be here because Martin inspired them with the background of the author of the book,” Cecilia remembers sadly. “He was such an intelligent man who had a talent for drawing, either with pen or pencil. People would come to the bookshop just to have a conversation with Martin. He was loved by us and the community. He leaves behind a void in our hearts, as well as in the community. We are going to miss him.”

Martin had an enlarged heart, which caused his death. Ironically, he was often described as a man with a ‘big heart’ by people who were unaware of his medical condition and were instead referring to his kindness and gentle nature.
Cecilia says they have been inundated with messages of support, as well as visitors who have paid tribute to a true legend.
The Vryheid Herald extends its condolences to Martin’s friends and family.

ALSO READ: Shop closes but Hospice continues in Vryheid

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.

Click to receive news links via WhatsApp. Or for the latest news, visit our webpage or follow us on Facebook and Twitter. Join us there!