Family members, colleagues, friends, and community members gathered at Bikers Church on May 7 to honour the life of Midrand police Lieutenant Colonel Francois De Villiers Gerber during an emotional memorial service celebrating nearly four decades of dedicated service in the South African Police Service (SAPS).

Gerber, who served as the supply chain management commander at Midrand Police Station, died of natural causes on April 29 at the age of 58.

His funeral service is scheduled for May 8 at 10:00 at Van Riebeeck Park, Kempton Park.

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Described by colleagues as disciplined, fair, and deeply committed to his work, Gerber served 39 years in SAPS, including more than 20 years at Bramley Police Station, before joining Midrand police five years ago and being promoted from captain to lieutenant colonel.

Speaking at the memorial service, his daughter Belinda Gerber reflected on the values that defined her father’s life and career. “This would have been his 40th year in the police service. Four decades of showing up, putting on the uniform, and doing the work,” she said.

“My father lived by a code many of you will recognise: service excellence, integrity, and transparency… These were not just words for him; they were principles he lived by every day. He never asked for special treatment and never accepted shortcuts or compromises. The rules applied equally to everyone, including himself.”

Belinda also described her father as a proud officer who carried himself with dignity and professionalism.

“His uniform was always immaculate because, to him, the badge and the uniform carried real meaning.”

Members from Bramley Police Station also attended the service and shared heartfelt memories of Gerber, describing him as not only a respected commander but also a caring mentor who often spoke proudly about his family and passion for fishing.

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Colleagues recalled how painful it was to see him leave Bramley for Midrand, saying the station lost not only an experienced commander but also a great human being.

Midrand police acting station commander Colonel Hoseah Mantji said, “We have lost a committed member in Midrand. All of us have lost a family member, Bramley, Midrand… but we must accept that God gives and He takes,” said Mantji.

Midrand station commander Brigadier David Molefe Tsotsotso, who is currently on leave, attended the memorial service to pay tribute to Gerber. “He was a soldier, a leader, a friend, an officer with dignity and a respected commander,” said Tsotsotso.

“He would always say, ‘If you don’t do it, I will do it myself.’ He was disciplined and expected discipline from others. He was a master in supply chain management and someone I trusted deeply.”

Tsotsotso emotionally recalled how Gerber efficiently managed police resources, including vehicles and firearms, and how he was always willing to assist without hesitation.

“I already miss you. Go well; you have done well. You were a valuable asset to the police and to the Midrand community,” he said.

The brigadier also remembered one of their final conversations, where Gerber spoke excitedly about wanting to find the perfect fishing spot after retirement.

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