Minister of Finance Trevor Manuel and Democratic Alliance leader Tony Leon were among the host of dignitaries at Wednesday’s memorial service for billionaire entrepreneur Anton Rupert.
Rupert (89) died in his sleep at his home in Stellenbosch at 11pm last Wednesday and was and was buried next to his wife, Huberte, on Tuesday. She died at the age of 86 on October 28 last year.
The death of his ”soul mate” has been described as the last straw for his health, which had gradually deteriorated over the past three years.
The memorial leaflet carried the motto ”‘n Man van waarde [A man of worth]” below a photograph of Rupert cuddling a lion cub.
The tycoon, who founded the Rembrandt Group, had wanted to be remembered as a man of worth rather than simply as a successful man.
Expressing their thanks for the support they have received since his death, Rupert’s family asked that donations in lieu of flowers be made to the Peace Parks Foundation.
The Rupert name is synonymous with wildlife preservation — Rupert himself played a pivotal role in the founding of the WWF SA.
People who thronged to the memorial service at the historic NG Moederkerk in Stellenbosch out of curiosity were barred from entering — as were the media.
However, the service was broadcast live in the Hofmeyrsaal, down the road from the church.
Thousands had been expected to attend, and hear Rupert’s son, Johann, and daughters Carolyn and Hanneli pay tribute to their father in a service led by Johann’s brother-in-law, Dr James Gray, of the United Church in Hermanus. — Sapa