Farewell teacher Elza
Tributes are pouring in for local music teacher Elza Pelser, who passed away at the age of 83 recently.
Some knew her as a music teacher, and others knew her as a very down-to-earth woman who always spread positivity. However, they all agree that the late Elza Pelser had a lasting impact on their lives.
On November 22, many residents paid their last respects to the multitalented Elza who passed away on November 15 following a long illness.
Elza was born on December 28, 1940, and was a Krugersdorp resident her whole life. She attended Laerskool Krugersdorp-Noord and matriculated at Hoërskool Monument High School where she was also Victrix Ludorum with her sporting talents. She started giving piano lessons when she was 15 and achieved her Bachelor of Arts and Honours degree in music at North-West University, with playing piano and organ being her speciality. She would later open several West Rand music centres and offered her services at schools including Hoërskool Jan de Klerk, Hoërskool Noordheuwel, HTS Nic Diederichs THS and Laerskool Dr Havinga.
According to her daughter Annelle Roux, her mother was also regularly involved at several church congregations for over 56 years and played a big role in the community. Her former student Johan Pottas explained how much of a huge impact she had on him.
”She was such a positive influence on me. She helped me with my music and was very strict yet fair, she helped me get to where I am today with music. I appreciate her for also seeing my potential early in my music journey and even telling me I will make it very far in music one day,” he said.
Johan added that outside of the music class he still holds fond memories of her due to her kind and welcoming nature.
“The koeksisters she baked, the clothes she made and most importantly the love she had for her students. I hope her soul rests in peace and that she knows she will always be my role model.”
Her son-in-law Dawid Roux also expressed how her passing was a great loss.
”She was known for her passion for music, but I will remember her for being a great mother who loved and cherished her family,” Dawid said
Elza is survived by loving family and her dog, Muggels. She will be sorely missed for her impact on the community.
