Known as a pillar of the Lowveld community and for his love for its people, Jo Koster died following a long struggle with an illness, at Kiaat Private Hospital on the evening of October 1.

Koster (76) was loved by those who knew him for his unwavering passion for helping others, his great love for his family, his zeal for local politics and his dedication to his church, Pneuma Church, and partaking in social work.

Koster had moved to Mbombela in 1981 where he remained a resident for the remainder of his life. He was a member of and councillor for the DA in Mbombela for many years, until his retirement six years ago, according to his wife Lollie.

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“He loved talking to people of all cultures, races and religions and was so good at bringing people together,” said Lollie.

This unique ability was widely recognised and despite being on opposition political benches, Koster had a brilliant working relationship with the ANC.

Koster had also owned a jewellery store, Koster Jewellers, for many years and was a member of the local bowling club and golf club, and involved in the Rotary Club of Nelspruit.

“His family meant the world to him and he loved having family get-togethers,” Lollie said.

“He died a true patriot of South Africa”.

Koster is survived by his wife Lollie, his four children, Karen Pereira, Janine Mihailescu, Niko Koster and Jolynne de Beer, and his six grandchildren, Victor Pereira, Dominic Mihailescu, Salvi Mihailescu, Zoë Koster, Amy-Fay de Beer and Haydn Kemp.