Funeral fund for Willard Beach drowning victim

The family of the man who tragically drowned at Willard Beach, Ballito, on Wednesday, have set up a funeral assistance fund on the gofundme website.

Donald Choga, and his wife of four months Mirka, had been touring South Africa, on holiday here from England.

He was originally from Zimbabwe and Mirka from the Czech Republic.

They were seen wading in the shore break at about 4.10 pm when they got into trouble and the tide swept Donald towards backline.

The lifeguards are only on duty until 4 pm.

Responding to their cries for help, a man, who had been on the beach with his family, dived in while two surfers also paddled out to rescue the man in trouble.

IPSS Medical Rescue Paul Herbst, said the surfers loaded the unconscious man onto a surfboard but struggled to get him to shore due to the rough surf.

Paramedics were unable to save him.

A message from his family:

“Donald Choga, no-one absolutely no-one has a bad word to say about him, he was a loving, straight shooting, honest, fun loving adventurous guy, he brought laughter and smiles to your face.

“He was always willing to help, loved his wife to bits and loved travelling. Donald lived his life to the full always on the move and always having fun.

“RIP Donald this was a freak accident that should never have happened. Please help us lay him to rest and give comfort to his wife.”