Obituary: Martin van Rooyen
Martin Van Rooyen will always be remembered as a rugby man.
THE expression ‘larger than life’ aptly described Martin van Rooyen.
He was a huge man with an equally huge sense of humour.
Van Rooyen arrived in Empangeni at the end of 1978 from Dundee, Northern KZN, where he had already made a name for himself as a rugby player.
He represented Northern KZN where he partnered his great friend Toy Dannhauser (former Transvaal (Lions) rugby captain) as the lock combination for the team.
He represented Empangeni Rugby Football Club as a first team player from 1979 to 1983 and also represented Zululand on numerous occasions during this period.
His presence on the field was certainly imposing and he carried this forward in his social life.
In his younger days he was a great organiser of events at the club and his sense of humour was enjoyed by everyone at any of these gatherings.
His interests and knowledge of the game never faded and many stories can be told about the trips to Test matches all over the country. He could keep everyone entertained for days on end and was always the last man standing at any party.
Van Rooyen retired to Mossel Bay in 2002 where he also made his presence felt in the social circles of the community.
Van Rooyen was diagnosed with cancer three months ago, and it was after a chemotherapy treatment session that he was driving his car and was involved in an accident which claimed his life six days later.
He will be fondly remembered by all. ‘Rus in vrede Ou Grote’.
• A memorial service will be held at Mick Kelly Park tomorrow (Friday) at noon.
A sad day for Zululand, Martin was a true gentleman and will be missed. I have many fond memories of his stories at he ERFC.