Businessman and philanthropist mourned
Well-known businessman and philanthropist Alan Benn has died.
WELL-KNOWN Durban businessman and philanthropist, Alan Benn, passed away on 8 December at the age of 91.
Benn, who was a chartered accountant, practised in the profession for 15 years before purchasing an interest in the JH Isaac Geshen Property Group which ultimately became part of the Accelerate Group.
He staunchly subscribed to the tenets of the Jewish faith and always embodied the spirit of giving and supported the less fortunate. Having had a long friendship with philanthropist, Victor Daitz, he was instrumental in the establishment of the Victor Daitz Foundation which has since its establishment made charitable donations of more than R400 million, predominantly to KwaZulu-Natal causes. During his years of retirement, Benn worked tirelessly the Foundation and reported for work daily at 7.30am.
ALSO READ: Retired priest shall be missed
Benn was the President of the South African Jewish Board of Deputies KwaZulu Natal Council and also served on the Council of the University of Natal. In 2008, on the occasion of his 80th birthday, the Rotary Club of South Africa conferred on him its highest honour, the Paul Harris Fellowship, joining the ranks of Nelson Mandela and Pravin Gordhan.
He was a mentor to many young people and was known as a wise and humble person without hubris. His friends and colleagues acknowledged him as one who had the quickest and sharpest wit. He was a devoted family man and during the long illness of his late wife Jean, his love and care for her was legendary.
He is survived by his children Lee-Anne and Clifford, three grandchildren and two great grandchildren. The Trustees of the Victor Daitz Foundation send their sincere and heartfelt condolences to them, and the wider Benn Family.
Do you want to receive news alerts via Telegram? Send us a message (not an sms) with your name and surname to 060 532 5535.
You can also join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
PLEASE NOTE: If you have signed up for our news alerts you need to save the Berea Mail Telegram number as a contact to your phone, otherwise you will not receive our alerts
Here’s where you can download Telegram on Android or Apple.
