Family of Glen Marais mother finds her death hard to deal with
Karien’s memorial service was on August 23, followed by a cremation service.
The family of a Glen Marais mother of two still finds it hard to deal with her sudden death in August.
Karien Janse van Rensburg’s (37) husband Deon (41) is accused of her murder.
The case was again postponed last week to November 27 pending post mortem results.
Van Rensburg is accused of severely assaulting his wife on August 5. She died in hospital on August 18.
According to Capt Jethro Mtshali, spokesperson for Kempton Park SAPS, Karien, who was in a coma upon admission into hospital until her death, had multiple injuries suggestive of assault. The initial charge of attempted murder changed to murder.
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Van Rensburg was granted R10 000 bail in Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court on August 21.
According to Karien’s mother, Elsie Lubbe, the matter didn’t even go to court for the postponement on Thursday last week.
“We were waiting to go into court when I received a call from the investigating officer that the case had been postponed,” said Lubbe.
“We are shattered and disappointed because family and friends came from afar to show their support, only to be told there would not be court proceedings. People took the day and time off from their work to be here. This is really sad.”
Although Karien died on August 18, she was declared brain dead on Women’s Day (August 9).
“She was breathing on her own and off the machines on August 8, but when we went to see her on August 9, the doctor told us she was brain dead,” said Elsie.
“Due to the fact that the matter is a criminal case we couldn’t switch off the machines until August 18. This is hard on all of us. She left her two sons behind and they miss her dearly.
Her sons are 13 and 17 years of age. The youngest was diagnosed with Down Syndrome and now lives with Lubbe. He is in a wheelchair and can’t talk properly. He only makes sounds and talks with his hands.
“When Karien was declared brain dead we were advised by a psychologist to take him to the hospital. He gently kissed, held and brushed her arm while looking at the machines.”
The matter has also been hard on Karien’s family and friends.
“She was a very kind and soft person who didn’t like fights or fighting anyone,” said Lubbe.
“It is very hard for us to deal with but we believe with time we will heal. One of the things I will miss about my daughter is her warm hugs, love and smile.”
Karien’s memorial service was on August 23, followed by a cremation service.
