In remembrance: Anthony Baard

Dear colleagues and students

We are deeply saddened to inform you of the death of our colleague Mr Anthony Baard (54) on Thursday morning, 24 December 2020. Mr Baard died at the Melomed Gatesville Hospital from COVID-19 related complications. He was a senior developer of the SAP team within the Systems Division in ICTS.

Mr Baard started working for the University of Cape Town (UCT) on a contract basis at the beginning of 1998 and became a permanent employee from June 2004. Colleagues will remember him as a kind, gentle person who was always willing to help others; a true gentleman.

He would take the time to work with others in different teams and share his knowledge with them. “He was never too busy to listen and offer encouragement. He regularly carried a big bag of electronics and liked to build two-way radios and other gadgets that he delighted in demonstrating,” his colleagues said.

On the domestic side, he has been described as someone who adored his wife and would often talk about her and their shared love for their pets and helping animals in need. He always availed himself to his family and his community, and generously donated when collections for causes came around to his desk.

Mr Baard is survived by his wife Rene and his sister Charmaine. He will be cremated on Wednesday, 6 January 2021. His wife requested that, instead of flowers, donations be made to animal shelters or organisations.

The university has reached out to offer support to the Baard family. Our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, immediate team members and all those who were closely associated with him. We keep his family in our thoughts as we come to terms with this loss, especially in the midst of this pandemic.

Sincerely

The UCT Executive

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