Frank Marawa’s values are reflected in his children
THE values of a man can be seen in the performance of his children and it is no doubt that Frank Marawa’s children are a good example of that.
That was the view of ANC treasurer Zweli Mkhize at the funeral service of the respected businessman who has died at the age of 86.
Mkhize was referring to the success of Marawa and his children. He also told mourners of how he respected and appreciated Marawa’s contribution to business and communities in need.
Marawa is the father of sports broadcaster Robert Marawa, model and radio presenter Vanessa, Nomvula, an adviser to Minister of Health Aaron Motsoaledi, and Gugu, a sports administrator.
He died last Wednesday, surrounded by his children.
His funeral service at St Faith’s Anglican Church, Greyville, on Friday was attended by Kaizer Chiefs manager Bobby Motaung, KZN Health MEC Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, SABC head of corporate affairs Hlaudi Motsoeneng, Minister of Sport Fikile Mbalula, Deputy Minister in the Presidency Buti Manamela, city manager S’bu Sithole, Ukhozi FM station manager Bonga Mpanza, football supporters and Metro FM presenters.
Robert described his father as a jack of all trades and a man who loved his family.
“My dad played many roles. He liked sports, He was a boxer in his time and had a six-pack, unlike us.
“He loved music especially jazz and he knew about politics as well. My dad cared about the family, he often checked up on me, he used to call me even when he didn’t know what to say, he would just talk about sport and tell me stories,” said Robert.
“My father passed away in front of us and I must admire the strength of my mom, Phumlile, his wife of 52 years. She was stronger than everyone. At the ward I held my father’s left hand and Vanessa held his right hand. My mom said my dad has passed away and we must accept it.
“She removed the oxygen and thanked the nurses for caring for my father. That moment was hard, that my dad was gone but my mom was very strong and comforted us,” said Robert.
Although Marawa was financially well off, he never spoiled his children, he wanted them to work and earn their living. First-born of the family, Nomvula spoke about their upbringing.
“My dad was a businessman. He was principled and very strict. As someone who was well off, you’d think he gave us money easily, but we had to work. During school holidays, we used to work at the family’s tuck shop. My dad was very strict with money. He taught us to work hard from a young age,” she said