It is with a heavy heart that the Krugersdorp community heard about the passing of well-known Hermu de Koker, or ‘Die Ysman’ as he was affectionately known. He passed away on Sunday, June 5 following an unfortunate incident.

Herman was the co-owner of the Ice Cube Centre, which he started with his father Francois in 2001.

His sister, Anesca Crous described him as an outgoing person with a bright personality. “His smile and eyes would light up a room. He had a way to make any bad day something of the past with just one hug.”

A memory that they will always treasure as a family was when they visited all nine provinces in just seven days when they went on a Durban holiday.

Being the spontaneous person he was, he loved the open road and putting smiles on everyone’s face. He would give the clothes off his back to anyone who needed it and had a massive heart for the elderly.”

At work, he was known as ‘Die Ysman’ but his children knew him as ‘Hermunoster’ – as big, proud person who did not let anything get him down. He made a success of anything he touched.

His motto was to live life to the fullest and to love what you do. He loved to entertain family and friends.

“He taught us no matter what your past experiences, to see it as a challenge to do better and prove to the world that one’s past does not define you. Even as an employer with multiple people working for him, no job was beneath him; many times he would jump in and work just as hard, if not harder, to get the job done.”

After Ice Cube Centre merged into Polar Ice, Hermu tried his hand at other ventures, the most recent being an internet cafe on Commissioner Street. The opening would have been next month and Hermu was very excited about the new business.

Hermu was my gym partner and inspiration to win the Arnold Classic Africa 2019 Bodybuilding competition. He was always willing to help without expecting anything in return. Regardless of his own pain, he always put others before him. He was the best gym partner, motivator and friend that anyone could ask for. The brilliant businessman could even sell ice in the middle of winter!! His kids were his life,” said Mark van Biljon, from New Dimensions Gym and one of Hermu’s close friends.

Anesce said he was an amazing boyfriend, employer, friend, brother, uncle, brother-in-law, cousin, son, grandson, husband and the father to three beautiful kids.

“We love him dearly and will miss him greatly. One thing everyone will remember about Hermu is surely that no matter what life throws at you, never lose your smile!”