Racing Settlers

railway yard. You can see the railway shed in the picture. As usual, for all celebrations, the residents and visitors dressed for the occasion. Tents were set up on the banks of the river, and picnics would have been the order of the day.

Tents for picnics were essential.

They would be used as resting areas for elderly women, shelter for mothers breast-feeding, and likewise for young children.

We understand that these races were akin to horse racing, the fever of excitement so palpable as to result at times in physical fighting over the results. Even the mere tip of the sail could be construed as a win, let alone the nose of the boat. Coinage was years ago, Stas threw himself wholeheartedly into serving his community in many different ways, particularly the safety and wellbeing of the residents. He was chairman of the safety/security committee and was affectionately respected by everyone.

Stas ran his own workshop from where he planned and carried out his design and repair work. It was here, too, that he designed and made his crucifixes.

A stroke two years ago was a severe blow but he did not give in to the handicap. With the support of everyone around him, especially Margaret and his carer, he faced each day with courage and determination.

Reluctantly he gave up his safety and police work, but continued making crucifixes. He could be found most mornings busy at his downsized workbench, determined to overcome his exchanged as in all betting, which too would have added to the burden in a household.

Unfortunately, the results for the boat races, like the horse events, were seldom recorded. This was an annual event, for which posters would have been put around the village and a notice placed in the local newspaper of that time. limited mobility.

He had always been active and ready to serve others. Nothing was too much for him. He would jump into action any time of day or night to help.

He and Margaret had been great travellers and caravaners and visited many parts of South Africa.

In recent years, they enjoyed 4x4 trips in the countryside, to Knysna and the Baviaanskloof. They recently celebrated their 32nd wedding anniversary.

Stas was a much-loved, colourful person who will be sadly missed by a wide circle of friends. Most of all, he loved his family. He leaves behind his loving wife, Margaret, her children, Andre, Saul and Nadine, and his children, Esmarie and Michel.

Fr Trymos Munyaka celebrated the requiem mass on August 27 and Stas’s ashes will be interred in Bloemfontein at a later stage.