In remembrance: Wilber John Pierre van Niekerk

Dear colleagues and students

It is with great sadness that we share news of the passing of our colleague, Mr Wilber John Pierre van Niekerk (33), on Saturday, 2 March 2024.

Mr Van Niekerk joined the University of Cape Town as a laboratory assistant in the Department of Human Biology in September 2021.

His colleagues have described him as a sweet soul and a friendly and genuine person. They will remember him for his calm disposition, helpfulness and bright smile that brought light to the department. From the very beginning, when he joined the department, colleagues say it was evident that he was someone special. With a heart full of compassion and a sense of duty, he quickly became an integral part of the department.

Colleagues will remember Mr Van Niekerk for his unique role in their lives, both professionally and personally. His absence will be deeply felt, but the memories colleagues shared with him will continue to live on.

Mr Van Niekerk is survived by his mother Mildred, father Edmund, sister Delmaine and nephew Cole.

Funeral details have not been concluded by the family at this stage. A memorial service will be hosted in Lecture Theatre 3, Anatomy Building, Faculty of Health Sciences campus on Thursday, 7 March 2024 from 13:00.

The university is keeping the Van Niekerk family in our thoughts and has reached out to offer them support in this period of bereavement. We extend our sincere condolences to the family and all who knew Mr Van Niekerk.

Sincerely

The UCT Executive

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