Tony Mavrandonis dies aged 74

Tony, who owned Benoni Car Radio – TV for many years, was born at Willowdene Home, in Bunyan Street, on September 27, 1940.

He attended St Dunstan’s School for his primary education, proceeding to CBC Boksburg and later to Natal College where he studied pharmacy.

He worked for Fred Ingrams Hillbrow for many years.

His parents (Marika and Argirios, known as Harry) were founders of the Hellenic Society of Benoni, and Tony served on this committee, alongside his father, for many years.

He attended the first Greek School, at the old St Dunstan’s, and later at the Hellenic Centre, in Woburn Avenue.

In 1972 he married Francine and they had three daughters, Maria, Erene and Vicky, and eight grandchildren.

In 1979, Tony bought Benoni Car Radio – TV and, with his family, continued to run the successful business, which also became the second Multichoice agent in South Africa in the early 1980s.

His family was always his first priority, spending many holidays together caravanning in the Drakensberg and at the sea. They loved to travel and had many adventures overseas.

His hobbies included his garden at his Alphen Park home of 40 years, which was his pride and joy; driving — rally driving (the Roof of Africa for fun) and doing advanced driving courses. He was a keen Formula One and Ferrari fan, and enjoyed a trip to the Brazilian Grand Prix in 2005.

He also enjoyed model trains and spent many hours with his grandchildren.

As a member of the Benoni Van Ryn Rotary Club for the past 24 and a half years, he participated in most of their projects, particularly enjoying HobbyX, Kruger Park trips and the Gardens of Benoni.

Tony (known by his family as ”100 per cent Tony”) was brave in his battle with ill health.

Surrounded by his family, his final days were spent in the amazing care of Hospice Benoni.

His funeral was held on December 27, at the St Athanasios Church, in Woburn Avenue.