Well-known Boksburg strongman, actor dies at age 42

The Boksburg community was rocked by the death of a well-known resident Ewald ‘Beast’ Kruger (42) who died on August 23 from a heart attack.

The nickname ‘Beast’ denoted his love for strongman competitions.

According to his partner Mariska Alberts, beneath his impressive physique was a heart of gold, and the gentle giant’s compassion for his fellow man was his outstanding characteristic.

“He could not only pull a truck but also lift burdens from others’ shoulders. He was a man of many talents,” she said.

Kruger attended Laerskool Baanbreker and Hoërskool Oosterlig, where he excelled at sports and achieved provincial colours for athletics and cricket.

The strongman graduated from the University of Potchefstroom with an Honours degree in sport psychology.

He was the provincial manager of Virgin Active at a young age and became an entrepreneur when he founded his supplement shop and restaurants, Italian Grill and Le Resaca.

He enjoyed sharing his bodybuilding expertise by training bodybuilders like the late Eugene Murray, a handicapped man who competed in mainline competitions.

Apart from the sport he loved, Kruger featured in various TV series, such as Getroud met Rugby and Binnelanders and the film Invictus.

He is survived by his mother Alta, his partner Alberts, family and many others.

Alberts said of her partner, “He was the love of my life who always walked a step behind me to protect me. This paradoxical kind-hearted man of steel will be very missed. Beast is gone but not forgotten.”