Residents pay respect to late community member

Ward 73 councillor Eleanor Huggett passed her condolences for the loss of resident Marian Laserson. The councillor shared that Laserson was 83 years old when she passed on on 10 July.

She was a Ward 73 Committee member, architect, town planner, expert on and champion of wetlands, and heritage.

“When I became councillor of Ward 73 in April 2017, Marian took me under her wing, readily giving of her time and expertise.  She assisted me and the residents with endless patience. I was constantly amazed by her depth of knowledge and was almost in daily contact with her as she guided and mentored me,” said councillor Huggett.

She added that the residents of Ward 73 have lost their champion and protector.

Huggett continued, “She was an enormous asset on the Paterson Park Steering Committee and her expertise was invaluable to all concerned.   Her vigilance regarding the rights of all never waned. She was asked recently if she had any allergies. She replied, ‘racism and discrimination’.

“She had a sharp wit and a marvelous sense of humour.  Her loss to Ward 73 and Johannesburg as a whole is immeasurable.   On a personal level, I have lost a very, very dear friend. Thank you, Marian.  I send heartfelt condolences to her two sons.”

The councillor also shared messages from other ward members.

Roger Chadwick: Chair of Orange Grove Residence Association; Marian was a unique personality and constant companion with me and OGRA. For Marian there were no borders. I know that she cannot be replaced because no one will ever be able to fill the void that has been created by her passing. I celebrate the life of a most special person and community activist of glowing proportion.

Councillor David Fisher Ward 74; Marian will be remembered by our community for her impactful and influential contributions to many issues. She tirelessly and freely shared her store of solid knowledge tempered with a practical perspective for the benefit of the community.

 Natalie Webb: Chairperson Lower Houghton Residents Association; Marian lived her life fearlessly.  The last time I saw her she shared such wonderful stories of COJ in the old and current days. Her knowledge was legendary and I think of her with gratitude and a huge sense of loss.

 Markus Scheuermaier: iHlathi   Conservancy; Very sad indeed. It would be good to find a way to commemorate her life, and her work.

 Colin Wasserfall:  Lower Houghton Residents Association and Norwood CPF executive chair;

It will always feel she has gone too soon. We had so much more to achieve together. We need to name a street or hall at the Paterson Park Recreation Centre after her.

 Venita Masisi: Community leader and Member of Paterson Park Steering Committee; Marian was a mentor, motivator and a very powerful and intelligent woman. A woman with a beautiful heart, always teaching, uplifting and caring for her community.

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