Barry Steenkamp passed away at the age of 80, early yesterday evening.

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden and peaceful passing of Barry Steenkamp in his sleep,” the Reeva Steenkamp Foundation confirmed in a statement on Facebook.

The statement reads that Steenkamp was a blessing to many, and he will be remembered with love and great fondness.

“We find solace in the knowledge that he is now with his beloved Reeva.”

Steenkamp is the father of slain model Reeva, who was shot by Paralympian Oscar Pistorius on Valentine’s Day 2013.

Steenkamp and his wife, June, have been opposing the release of Pistorius on parole for several years.