Family remembers a man with ‘a heart of gold’
Family members say Shiven was always available to provide guidance, advice and his time
What was meant to be the start of a joyous weekend, marking celebration and success, turned into a nightmare of murder and tearful memories for an Estcourt family.
Well-known businessman Shiven Juggernath (35) was shot dead outside his business premises, Jes Towing & Recovery in McFarlane Street, on the morning of January 27 – just minutes after assuring his family that he would accompany them to his daughter’s prize-giving at Estcourt High School.
READ MORE HERE: Businessman shot dead in Macfarlane Street
While police stitch together the pieces of a murder investigation, the Juggernath family is torn apart by grief, describing Shiven’s death as ‘complete devastation’.
Shiven’s funeral service was held on Saturday, where a large crowd of family, friends and industry colleagues gathered in Estcourt and Ladysmith to give him a memorable send-off. Shiven and his wife Elaine had started the business 14 years ago, and he was well-known in the towing fraternity.
As family members gather at Shiven’s home to pay their respects to his wife, two daughters and son, they also make time to remember a man they called ‘a family man and a pillar of strength in the community’.
“He lived for his family. He always told us that we were his life,” reminisces his eldest daughter.
Shiven would have celebrated his 36th birthday next week and his family had plans for him. They say he was also truly elated because his daughter had received an excellent matric pass and had been accepted to pursue studies in Criminology at university. She also wants to become a pilot, so he had booked her first flight which would have taken place on Sunday (January 29). He was also looking forward to celebrating his elder daughter’s PhD pass.
His wife says Shiven is probably most remembered for his good deeds in the community.
“He had a heart of gold and gave to anyone, regardless of who they were. He loved everyone, and everyone loved him. He was an honourable man who was committed to help,” Elaine added.
During his ‘time off’, he enjoyed spinning and had invested in customised vehicles for him and his son, where they bonded during shows or practice sessions.
Family member Veeran Janki says Shiven was not just his boss, but also his brother. “Words can’t explain this loss; we are having sleepless nights and can’t come to terms with it. He was the most humble person we knew,” he said.
Friend of 12 years Girma ‘John’ Atiso, who is described as Shiven’s ‘shadow’, broke down in sobs while trying to explain how much their friendship meant.
Young Akhil Boros, who lost his father at a young age, said Shiven filled that void and provided guidance and advice on the road to becoming a man.
READ MORE IN THIS THURSDAY’S ESTCOURT NEWS
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