Ladysmith: We celebrate 69 years of a well-lived life… Mr Harripersadh Sookan was born in Estcourt and moved to Ladysmith 40 years ago.

Having to begin working at the tender age of just 13 years old at a bakery, he ‘came of age’ younger than most and when he got a driver’s licence, he was driving trucks for the then Emnambithi Municipality.

His last job was as a Roads Superintendent at the municipality, having to retire due to a leg disability. Life continued to throw him lemons, but he made lemonade with whatever he had.

Never one to be kept down by a mishap, he always bounced back, full of vigour. Having been in a coma for many months and knocking at death’s door, he bounced back and lived eight years with an amputated leg. He did not know the meaning of the word “deterrence” as he went about making adjustments to his life.

A motorised wheelchair and a customised vehicle were his modes of transport that took him wherever he needed to be, and so Mr Sookan continued to live a normal life. His passion was being with his kith and kin, near or far, and of course his favourite pastime was fishing – he always wanted to get out on the water.

Be it fresh water or saltwater, that rod always beckoned in his hand. He lived for his children and grandchildren, and never failed to attend a car show ‘n shine or sound competition to show his support for his grandchildren.

A friend to all and sundry in Ladysmith and beyond, Mr Sookan always took the time to care for others before himself. His smiling demeanour will truly be missed.

Having lost his wife and young daughter to illness, he lived life to the fullest. Not even the dreaded Covid-19 could dampen his indomitable soul.

His motto was to overcome whatever stood in his way as an obstacle. He leaves behind a legacy of love to his large, extended family throughout South Africa.

Cheers to a life well-lived, to the fullest, and a glorious life in the Hereafter. He will be missed by all whose lives he touched during his 69 years on earth.