Family and friends of the late Justin van der Merwe (28) celebrated his life at a memorial service at the Grobbelaars Funeral Services Chapel in Riviera on Saturday morning.
The small chapel could not fit the some 150 people who attended the service.
Several family members and friends each gave a tribute to Van der Merwe during the service.
Van der Merwe’s sister, Roxanne, addressed the attendees on behalf of her father, Marc, who could not attend the service and her mother, Allison.
“By the number of people present today, I feel its safe to say that Justin made us all feel like family. Justin defined himself as a son to his parents and we loved him more than life itself. Justin loved and was loved by all. You will sadly be missed, rest in peace. All our love,” Marc’s letter read.
Allison’s letter read as follows: “You may be gone but you will not be forgotten. All my love, Mom.”
Roxanne also addressed the attendees with her own tribute, saying: “I love you and I am proud to have been your sister. You will always be remembered, no matter what.”
Rachelle Smith, a cousin of Van der Merwe, spoke a few words on behalf of the extended family, while Ryan Bouwer, Devan Oxley-Oxland and Dawie Kruger shared some of their fondest memories of their friend.
“Justin always kept moving forward and he was a genuine person with no hidden agenda. He could light up a room with his smile. He was a caring person at his very core and he lived two lifetimes during his short time with us,” Bouwer said.
Van der Merwe died last week Friday evening, after falling off the back of a bakkie, while going out with friends.
A private cremation ceremony for Van der Merwe will take place later this week.
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Family and friends mourn loss of young man
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