Town grieves loss of ‘Tata Mkulu’
It is with great sorrow that Graaff-Reinet locals learned of the passing of André Kilian, former CEO of the SA College for Tourism in Graaff-Reinet, on 4 September.
"As we all are reeling from the shock of his untimely passing, it is hard to find suitable words to pay tribute to this truly remarkable man," said Lise-Marie Greeff-Villet, communications officer of Peace Parks Foundation.
Those closest to Kilian at the College shared a heartfelt message for their Tata Mkulu (as he was so fondly called by the students and staff): "You were there from the beginning. A fierce and protective leader, who was a father figure to so many. There is no hallway, lecture room, office, or heart you did not imprint on. The legacy you leave and the impact you have had on 1000's of young men and women who have entered (and are still to enter) the gates of SACT is immeasurable. It is our deepest privilege to have known you and our profound task to uphold your memory. We find comfort in the belief that you will be guiding us at every step."
Kilian was the CEO of the Tourism College from when it was established in 2001 up until his retirement at the end of 2019.
Greeff-Villet added that Kilian leaves behind a lasting legacy have profoundly changed the lives of so many people.
The Drostdy Hotel team, together with the SACT, extended their condolences to his daughters and extended family.