Covid-19 claims local photographer

Covid-19 has dealt the Garden Route yet another blow with the death of well-known and much-loved local photographer, Desmond Scholtz (57) on Saturday 17 July.

His wife, Athane Scholtz, senior communications officer at George Municipality, says Desmond passed away in hospital due to pneumonia that was brought on by Covid-19. He had been fighting for his life in ICU for some weeks.

“I was with him at the end, had time to pray and cry. It was peaceful and I could feel the Holy Sprit in the room with us all the time,” she said.

“Des was the perfect husband for me, a wonderful dad to our children, Emma (17) and Nathan (14), and played a significant role as a Christian husband, father, friend, counselor, missionary and leader.

“We are devastated by our loss. Please know that we are so grateful for every prayer, for your love, for the support, the meals and everything else. You are carrying us through this time,” she posted on Facebook on Sunday morning.

Scholtz was a well-known and talented photographer who has been operating from the Garden Route since 2004.

He had an eye for balanced and brilliant images and his diverse portfolio features some of South Africa’s most prominent people like former president Nelson Mandela, Ernie Els, Joost van der Westhuizen, Barry Hilton, the Garden Route’s very own Wendy Oldfield, and many more. Before his death, he worked at Nelson Mandela University in George while remaining a freelance photographer for, among others, the OCC, Garden Route Mall and South magazine. Group Editors newspapers and websites also featured many of his stunning images over the years. All our staff members offer our sincerest condolences.

An online memorial service will be held via Hope Church tomorrow, Friday 23 July.