Family and friends of the late David Arendse, 95, describe him as a legend whose lessons they will carry with them.
Mr Arendse, better known as Pappa Dawie, was considered a father to many in the community. His family was among the first to move to Bonteheuwel from Tramway Road, Sea Point, because of the apartheid government’s forced removals.
He died in his sleep on Friday April 28 and was buried on Saturday May 6.
Leonard Lopes, 77, his second cousin, said he’ll remember Mr Arendse as a talented soccer player.
“He played for Sea Point Swifts at the old Green Point track. He played his last game at the age of 34. And even after we had to move from Tramway Road, he would travel from Bonteheuwel and I would travel from Bridgetown to Green Point for the love of soccer. I was fortunate to be at his last match. He was a thorough gentleman. People naturally respected him. He was a humble man. He never smoked and he was a non-drinker. Mr Arendse was also the oldest living beneficiary (at that time) of the Tramway Road restitution programme,” Mr Lopes said.
Mr Arendse was often spotted walking long distances around the community – even at his advanced age – and he would refuse a lift, Mr Lopes added. This was his way of keeping fit.
Chris Arendse said his father was a caring family man who was dedicated to his church and work. He said his father also loved fishing and imparted his love for exploring different parts of the country to him.
“He loved not only his own children, but that of the community as well. He helped to care and raised so many children. Even though he was a quiet man, he made a big impact in the community. He was also a kind and generous man,” Chris Arendse said.
Reverend Heflin Houlie from the Bonteheuwel Moravian Church said Mr Arendse always contributed generously to their soup kitchen and very rarely missed a church service.