DAVE Addison, a well respected stalwart of the Empangeni community, sadly died on 3 December, after a long illness.
He was 88 years old and is survived by his loving wife Liz, his children Judy, Anne, Gillian and Patrick, 10 grandchildren and a number of great grandchildren.
At the age of 17 after leaving school, Dave joined the navy and did a year’s service until the end of the war.
Dave’s commitment and interest to the sugar industry was a feature of his life.
All this started when he joined his father Lewis Addison on the family farm.
In 1960 he was included onto the Board of the Umhlathuzi Valley Sugar Company as an executive member.
He became Chairman of the Company in 1978, a position he held until his retirement in 1997.
During this time the Company grew significantly, Puck Addison, Dave’s brother said he was ‘a hard, hands-on worker’.
Dave was involved in so many other sugar estates and with his knowledge and unwavering attention to the interest of the sugar world he was an absolute example to all of us.
Dave was a true Zululander, who not only took a keen interest in his farm but in sporting activities as well.
He played rugby for Zululand but it was on the cricket field that he really excelled.
He was an opening batsman of considerable ability and played a major role in the fortunes of the Empangeni Cricket Club and Zululand for many seasons.
Dave undertook the task of looking after the cricket pitch at Addison Park, which he did for many years and made a great success of the job.
Over the years Dave and Liz Addison made considerable contributions towards the welfare and running of the Empangeni Country Club.
ave was a dedicated and generous man to the district and never failed to respond to anybody asking for advice or help.
He will be truly missed by his devoted wife, family and all his friends.
Rest in peace Dave.
Your contribution to the community will live and stay with us for many years to come.
*The memorial for Dave Addison will be held at 2.30pm on Friday, 11 December at the Addison family farm. All are welcome.
Written: Mike Harrison
