Lifelong resident dies at 79
Well-known resident and retired businessman Adfre Barnard (79) died on Sunday.
Barnard, who was born in the Far East Rand Hospital on September 30, 1938, lived in Brakpan all his life.
He attended school at the Brakpan Convent after which he completed his education at Brakpan High School.
He was a member of the high school’s brass band and played the bugle, an activity which brought him much joy.
After matriculating, he found employment at the Sallies Reduction Works at Sallies Mines.
Barnard married the love of his life, Cathrine Elizabeth Smith, fondly known as Blondie, in 1964.
In 1967, the couple welcomed daughter Natashia, who was the apple of her father’s eye and later became his right hand in his thriving business.
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Barnard started Rubber Services in Brakpan with the help of childhood friend Kokkie Brisley.
After Brisley left the company, Barnard continued to grow it from strength to strength and it became one of the biggest rubber lining companies in the southern hemisphere.
As an extra venture, Barnard and his wife had a carnation farm where they grew prize-winning buds. He also took an interest in flower arranging and regularly walked away with prizes at flower shows.
Other interests included Koi fish and fast cars.
His love for cars started at a very young age, his favourite being the Triumph TR3. He raced at premium races at Zwartkops and Kyalami but also took part in street races where he made a name for himself.
Barnard retired a couple of years ago due to illness and spent his golden years with his daughter, grandchildren and great- grandchildren.
His funeral service will be held tomorrow (Thursday) at the NG Kerk, Dalpark, 22 Boekenhout Street at 11 am.
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