Ermelo bids farewell to a man of kindness and integrity
Highvelder will miss his weekly “Goeieee môre!” — a greeting that we all came to know and love, instantly bringing energy to the office.
ERMELO – The community is mourning the loss of Butch Kotze, a man whose presence was defined by kindness, a gentle spirit, and a deep love for his family and town.
Kotze passed away on February 5, leaving behind a legacy of community service and professional integrity.
Born in Zimbabwe, Butch later made South Africa his home, eventually settling in Ermelo in 2002.
Over the past two decades, he became a familiar and trusted face in the community and at the Highvelder Newspaper, where his optimistic voice would ring out with a cheerful: “Goeieee môre!” — a greeting that became something we all came to know and love, instantly bringing energy to the office every Thursday when he arrived to collect his newspapers.
As a self-employed businessman and the owner of Qalisa Distributors, he was respected for his work ethic and the genuine, personal relationships he built with his clients and colleagues alike.
Beyond his professional life, Butch was a pillar of the community.
He was a long-standing and dedicated member of the Rotary Club of Ermelo, where he worked tirelessly on initiatives aimed at uplifting those in need.
He was a devoted husband and a loving father to his two daughters.
He found immense joy in his role as a grandfather to his six grandchildren, who will fondly remember his warmth and gentle nature.
The funeral service to celebrate his life was held at the Catholic Church in Ermelo at 11:00 on February 13.
