Fisherman ‘wanted to die at sea’
THE family of Marco van Wyk, an umhlanga spear fisherman found dead in Ballito’s Christmas Bay on Friday, said despite their grief they found consolation in the fact that he died doing what he loved.
Van Wyk’s son Mario said his father had told them that if his life ended, he wanted it to happen in the ocean.
“He was obsessed about the sea and spearfishing as a sport. It may be painful to many of us, but it was his wish.
“He said he would be happy if his life ended in the ocean, which he often referred to as his home,” Mario said.
The 57-year-old spearfisherman, who was a member of the umhlanga Spearfishing Club (USC), was reported missing on Thursday night.
His car was found in a parking lot and his float was in the water nearby.
Mario said his father had not told anyone he was going fishing on Thursday.
“I think he was in fourth place in the club and was pushing for third place.
“So he wanted to catch fish as he had only three days to go before the spearfishing club’s prize-giving.
“He was the second oldest in the club and was one of the best divers. All the young guys learnt from him.”
The body was found at the northern end of the ledge at Christmas Bay point.
Mario speculated that his father had a blackout while in the water.
“He did not have any injuries. He was a very strong man who was always exercising and he did not smoke or drink.
“He was very healthy. So it must have been a blackout. But we will wait for the authorities to confirm.”
He added that his father was a perfectionist and had started “the most amazing workshop and designed a unique spearhead and speargun”.
Van Wyk had been on a quest to be in the top two in the club, Mario added.
“Although it was not his full-time job he wanted to get the most out of it.
“Only those people who do it for a living are normally in the top two, but he wanted to challenge them.
“For my father it was just a hobby, he was an engineer by profession.”
Mario also thanked the club members for supporting the family.
Travis Watkins of the USC conveyed condolences on behalf of the members.
He said of Van Wyk: “He was always willing to share his personal experiences and hunting techniques with everyone in the club.
“Marco was a family man and a very successful businessman.
“He was very dedicated to the sport and even had his own line of wooden spearfishing guns which he sold locally and internationally.
“He will be sorely missed in the club for his energy, willingness to help and teach.
“The club sends heartfelt condolences to the family at this trying time.”
Van Wyk is survived by his wife and two children.
His ashes would be scattered at sea on Saturday.