Boksburg SPCA’s Dokter will be sorely missed

Long-serving Boksburg SPCA driver Dokter Maruleng Mphela died on October 20 at age 57.

In 2023, he was honoured with a 35-year-long service award, recognising his unwavering commitment to animal welfare in the region.

Throughout his decades of service, Mphela was known not only for his reliability but for his compassion and tireless work ethic.

He was responsible for the collection, transport, and rescue of thousands of animals, and became a familiar and beloved figure in the Boksburg area.

Boksburg SPCA manager Vicky Finnemore said the society’s committee and Mphela’s colleagues expressed their profound sadness and shock at the news.

“Dokter served Boksburg SPCA and the animals in our community with distinction, dedication, compassion and care. He will be sorely missed,” said Finnemore.

The SPCA extended heartfelt condolences to his wife, Annah, his children, and the wider Mphela family during this difficult time.

“Doc, fly high with the angels. May your soul rest in peace,” Finnemore said.

In an interview with the Boksburg Advertiser after receiving his long-service award, Mphela said he grew up in Limpopo with a passion for animals.

“It’s hard work, but it’s rewarding,” he told the newspaper at the time.

Funeral details have not been released yet.

Meanwhile, tributes are pouring in on the Boksburg SPCA Charity Shop Facebook page:

The Doggy Parlour: I knew Dokter so well for so many years when he dropped off and collected dogs for grooming. He always had a smile on his face, no matter how hard his day was. We always called him 911 for dogs as he could catch any terrified dog.

Marcelle Meredith: You were a young man of 20 when we first met. We were impressed by your interview. You were a fine young man who worked hard, and you became passionate about all animals. You have been loyal and you are a great loss not only to your wife, children and grandchildren but also to the animals. Rest in eternal peace, Doc. Deepest sympathy to your wife and children.

Raplph Chivaviro: I am going to miss you so, so much, Doc. Our mornings will never be the same without your early morning jokes. Thank you for all the work lessons, advice on life and the special person you were to us. Gaboste Papa!

Nomsa Mfuphi: Rest in peace Papa, and thank you for your service.

Yvette Berridge: I am deeply saddened by this news. What a terrible loss of a beautiful soul. My sincere condolences to his family. I was privileged to work alongside him for many years, with the ups and downs that came with the job. May you rest in peace, my friend.

Elise van der Schyff: Such sad news. A huge loss for the Boksburg SPCA Charity Shop and the community. Sincere condolences to all concerned.

Tayla Barrett: RIP, dear Doc. Thank you for all you did. You will be sorely missed.

Glenda Osborn: Noooo. My heart is breaking. Please pass on my sincere and deepest sympathies to his loved ones. He was an extremely pleasant man who joyfully carried out all tasks. He was loved and respected by all and will always be remembered. Such a loss to this world.

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