Estcourt community pays emotional tribute to Pastor Ben Pretorius
It was evident at the memorial service that Pastor Ben touched many lives
Described as a ‘gentle giant’ and a ‘shady tree’, the life of Pastor Ben Pretorius was celebrated at a memorial service held on Saturday.
Pastor Ben (65), as he was affectionately known, passed away suddenly last Wednesday while he was working.
His death shocked and devastated dozens of people who united at the NG Church to remember the life of a jovial, spiritual and loving man.
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In 2005, the Pastor Ben and his wife Henta relocated from Pretoria to Estcourt when he took up the position as pastor at the Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa (AFM) Church.
Since then, the family has made Estcourt their home and its residents their family. During these years, Pastor Ben and his wife have been involved in several religious and community projects, which were applauded during the memorial service.
Colleagues in the ministry spoke proudly of the prayer sessions and community groups that Pastor Ben was a part of.
His love for the Lord was reiterated, with many speakers recalling how Pastor Ben would always say: “Jesus loves you.”
“A shady tree has fallen and has left us all in the sun,” said one of the speakers.
Nods of heads and whispers of ‘yes’ were heard in the church as Pastor Ben’s fatherly love, cheerful spirit and selfless ability to help others were mentioned.
“He was a gentle giant,” said one of the speakers.
With emotions running high and tears flowing freely, tributes were made to Pastor Ben from neighbours; friends that he has helped find God and colleagues from the religious fraternity.
One thing that was evident, Pastor Ben was a positive influence in the lives of hundreds of people and that influence won’t be forgotten.
Pastor Ben is survived by his wife Henta, four sons, Charl, Andre, Ettienne and Neil, his daughter Maralien and six grandchildren.
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