POLOKWANE – Jack Dryden-Schofield, a beloved figure in the Polokwane community, passed away last Monday, leaving a lasting impact on those who loved and adored him.
Born in Balfour in the Eastern Cape in 1938, he attended Queens College in Queenstown from the age of four and joined Mobil Oil Company straight-out, and worked the Western and Eastern Cape regions until 1967.
He arrived in Polokwane in 1968 and continued as a representative for Mobil Oil. Quickly embracing the community, he became an active member of Round Table. Not long after moving to Polokwane, Jack met his future wife, Eileen Hansen, and they married in 1971. Together, they built a loving home that became a social hub filled with friends and family.
Sadly, Eileen passed away at the beginning of August this year.
Read more: Remembering Eileen Schofield
In the late 1970s, Jack joined Theo Goosen Estate Agency, where he pioneered the first sectional title development in Polokwane; the Casablanca Townhouse development on Oost Street. By the early 1990s, he opened his own agency, Homenet, which later became part of Harcourts. Colleagues regarded him as one of the most knowledgeable and skilled agents, adept at closing even the most complex deals.
In 1997, Jack and Eileen established Victoria Place Guesthouse, which continues to thrive as one of Polokwane’s top accommodation establishments.
His commitment to family and community was evident through his involvement in organisations such as Round Table, the 41ers and Rotary.
As head of the Rotary Exchange programme for Limpopo, he facilitated international relationships, sending numerous students abroad. “Notably, he led a team of young professionals to India, where they immersed themselves in local business practices and culture. Jack was honoured with the Paul Harris Fellowship, Rotary International’s highest service award.
A committed member of the Presbyterian Church, Jack’s faith was a guiding force in his life. He and Eileen hosted a weekly Bible study at their home, fostering a strong sense of community.
A traveller at heart, Jack explored the globe with Eileen, journeying far and wide, from Russia to Alaska to the tip of South America. Never shying away from adventure – from parasailing to white-water rafting to climbing glaciers – Jack lived by his motto: ‘Life is for the living’.
As a keen rugby supporter, it wasn’t unusual to see Jack cheering for the Springboks, beer in hand, at a game in a foreign land. Jack was also an enthusiastic golfer, known for his exceptional putting skills and infectious laughter. He brought joy to the golf course, especially at the 19th hole, also known as the clubhouse.
One of Jack’s students on a trip to India, Adele van der Linde said, “Jack’s passing is a huge loss to the community but we celebrate the fact that his was a life well lived.”
Rotary District 9400 assistant governor, Horst Meyer knew Jack for many years. “Uncle Jack was always a great guy, and he has done so much for the community at our fundraising events he supported and helped. I remember when I was Rotary president in 2018, how he offered his guidance and advice. He will definitely be missed in our club, our town and our community.”
Jack is survived by his children, Tracey, Dale and Marc, along with their families and a community that will miss his spirit and generosity.
A memorial was held on October 2 at the Presbytarian Church in Brown Street.
