Legendary Vaal Dam pioneer Dicky Manten passes on

DENEYSVILLE – Mr Dicky Manten, considered by many as the Vaal Dam’s ‘guardian,’ passed away early on Sunday morning.
He succumbed to a long illness after being in hospital for the last eight weeks.
The announcement was made on Sunday morning by his wife, Kathy: “It is with deepest sadness that I inform you that Dicky lost his battle at about a quarter to one this morning. The world feels very different already. Thank you all for your love and support and all your prayers over this time.”
Dicky was the owner of Manten Marina, which was founded by his late father, master boat builder Dick Manten Senior.
Dicky took over the helm in 1995 together with his wife and children Dirk, Jake and Cassidy.
All members of the family are sailors and boaters, having been involved in water sports practically their whole lives.
In the 1980s when it became evident that there was a need for an inland NSRI rescue station at Vaal Dam, Manten Marina offered voluntary services to the institute, and Station 22 (Vaal Dam) was formed at the end of 1984.
During the past 40 years, Dicky and his family played an integral part in hundreds of rescue operations undertaken by Station 22.
In his honour all NSRI stations throughout South Africa were flying their flags at half mast on Sunday.
Apart for saving many lives through the years, Dicky will also be remembered for the amazing person he was – his big smile, his jokes and kind heart.
One of the mourners described him on Facebook as a husband who loved unconditionally, a father who protected endlessly, a grandfather who inspired unlimitedly, a brother who lead by example and a friend who cared tenderly.
*Vaalweekblad pays tribute to a dear friend and a man who made the world a better place.
We will surely miss him.