The sudden passing of Colin Roopnarain at just 34 left many stunned.
His grieving family, his dad, Pastor Anil, his siblings and others were left to come to terms with Colin’s death in Durban last week after a short illness. Pastor Anil bravely sang and spoke at his memorial tributes on Saturday, the first of which was held at the family home on Nightingale Street, Peacevale.

For the Courier, Colin’s death took on a more personal meaning as we remember the young man who came to us in around 2003, full of ideas and drive.

His writing ability knew no ends and as a product of Dundee Secondary, the town can be proud of what Colin achieved in his journalistic career. We knew him as witty, funny, honest and a great friend. He touched people’s lives in a positive way and loved his town. He famously pioneered the ‘Lost Tales of Dundee’ feature that recalled ‘urban legends and sometimes infamous deeds’ that turned out to be a must-read column.

We were sad to lose Colin when he chose to head for Independent papers in Durban but felt a sense of deep pride every time we saw his byline in the Sunday Tribune’s arts and leisure section. Colin was indeed an asset and his talent will be sadly missed by the world of art and journalism.