WATCH: Community bids farewell to Alberton businessman and army veteran Deon Swart
The long-time resident, remembered for his generosity, service, and dedication, was laid to rest after a courageous battle with brain cancer.
Alberton’s Deon Swart was recently laid to rest. Born on October 14, 1962, the long-time resident and respected small business owner passed away on August 18 after a battle with brain cancer.
Deon was best known for establishing Garden Talk Garden Services, a successful SMME specialising in garden services and landscaping.
Having lived in Alberton since 1973, Deon attended Laerskool Generaal Alberts and later matriculated from Hoërskool Alberton.
He went on to serve in the South African Defence Force’s (SADF) parachute battalion, stationed in Bloemfontein.
Family, old friends, and members of the community gathered at the Doxa Deo Church in Meyersdal to pay their last respects to the army veteran.
Mourners remembered him for his selflessness, charitable contributions, and dedication to others.
@albertonrecord Alberton’s Deon Swart was recently laid to rest. Born on October 14, 1962, the long-time resident and respected small business owner passed away on August 18 after a battle with brain cancer. FULL STORY on www.albertonrecord.co.za #Alberton #Meyersdal ♬ the funeral – my head is empty
Over the years, Deon supported various public gardening outreaches and assisted citizens in need by servicing their gardens free of charge. He was also involved in local sport, serving on the Alberton Rugby Club’s management in 2011.
His army comrade and close friend, Andre “Mossie” van der Walt, said: “It is with sorrow that the close-knit Delta Company 1982/83 of 1 Parachute Battalion learned of the passing of Deon Swart. To be selected as a parachute soldier is in itself a remarkable achievement and an honour. Deon was one of the men who stood out as both a soldier and a person.
“Deon was responsible for legendary stories that many troops will never forget. A true friend and legend in the Delta family. Deon, you and your spirit live on in the hearts and minds of the Delta men. It was a privilege to know you as a friend and soldier. Salute.”
In tribute, parachute battalion veterans formed a guard of honour for Deon outside the church.
At the time of his passing, Deon lived in Randhart and operated his company from its business premises in First Avenue, Alberton North.
He is survived by his wife Michelle, sons Marco, Henk, Xander, and Xavier, his mother Koeks Swart (87) of Alberton Retirement Village, brother Conrad, sister Tania of Denver, Colorado (USA), as well as many friends, colleagues, and former comrades.
