The following eulogy for Olive Elise de Bruin (néé Davel) was lovingly written by her family and close friends and is published as received, as a tribute to a life that touched many hearts.

“With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Olive Elise de Bruin, a woman known for her unwavering loyalty, quiet strength, and boundless love. Her life was defined by family, faith, and friendship, and her presence brought comfort and stability to all who knew her.

Elise was a devoted mother to Lizel, Jeanne, Nadine, and Johan; a beloved grandmother to Alexis, Gianna, and Liam; a cherished sister to Dick, Gerda, and Kobus; and a loyal friend. She was deeply invested in the lives of her family and a steady, compassionate presence through every season of life.

Many knew Elise through her passion for creativity and her years as the proud owner of Bernina Middelburg. To her, it was never merely a business, it was a community. It was a place where creativity flourished, friendships were formed, and confidence grew one stitch at a time. Elise did not simply sell sewing machines; she empowered people. She believed that with the right tools, patience, and guidance, anyone could create something beautiful.

As a quilter, Elise understood a profound truth about life. Quilting is the art of taking many different pieces; colours, textures, and shapes, and stitching them together into something meaningful. Elise lived that philosophy. She brought people together from all walks of life, found beauty in diversity, and taught that even the smallest piece has purpose.

As a sewing teacher, she gave far more than instruction. She gave encouragement, confidence, and the gift of capability. Many who entered her classroom unsure of themselves left not only with new skills, but with renewed belief in their own potential. She had patience for beginners, enthusiasm for creativity, and pride in every finished project.

Elise’s life was a masterpiece stitched together with faith, perseverance, creativity, and love. The seams of her life were strong, the patterns she created will endure, and the lessons she taught, in sewing and in living, will continue in the hands and hearts of all who knew her.

Though we grieve deeply, we also give thanks: for her hands that created, her words that encouraged, and her heart that loved without limits.
Perhaps the most fitting tribute is this: Elise showed us how to mend what is torn, how to create beauty from scraps, and how to stitch love into everything we do. Her thread runs through all of us, and her legacy will live on, one careful stitch at a time.”

A memorial service will be held on Monday, March 2, at 11:00 at N.G. Church, Dullstroom.