Ivan Kloke will be remembered by many in Dundee for his many years with the local municipality. Ivan passed away at the age of 79 years old in Nigel, Gauteng, last month.

Originally from the Eastern Cape, he worked as a traffic officer for many years prior to his appointment as a Civil Defence officer – what now would be known as the Disaster Manager with the Dundee Municipality. Known for his complete dedication to any task, his people skills and great sense of humour, Ivan quickly became the ‘go-to-guy’ at the municipality.

He assisted many communities – even outside the area – in times of crisis, be it a devastating veld or house fire, flood or any other kind of disaster. Through his warm personality, Ivan was able to establish many contacts in both the public and private sector, whom he could call upon to be of assistance at short notice – be it donations of food parcels, temporary shelters or just about anything else. This all caught the attention of the then Provincial Administration.

He impressed with his ability to bring on board all stakeholders – Ambulance Services, Traffic Department, SAPS, Welfare Department and Fire Brigade – to ensure that in the event of a disaster, the response would be a co-ordinated one. For this, Ivan won many provincial awards. The Civil Defence demonstration performed at the annual Dundee Show was always a highlight that was watched by dignitaries from the Province.

Throughout his duties and beyond, Ivan always enjoyed the support of his family by his side. Upon his retirement, he moved to Nigel in Gauteng in 2001.

He leaves behind his wife, Rina, and a loving family of children and grandchildren. In his retirement, former Mayor Jeff Shardelow, who now lives in Canada, recalled his close working relationship with Ivan in the 1990s: “It is with a sore heart and great sadness that I learned of Ivan Kloke’s passing.

Dundee was our home for 27 years. During my years as mayor, it was my pleasure to work very closely with Ivan. It was a time when Councils were dealing with major changes and Ivan played a vital role in many aspects of the new dispensation.

“He was head of the Disaster Management Team and was an integral part of the establishment of the Interim Council, the ‘then new’ taxi rank development project, Taxi Association, Traffic Department and Mayoral Secretariat, to mention just a few. He was always upbeat, positive and up to the task.

His laugh and keen sense of humour was infectious, even in high pressure or difficult circumstances. I wish to convey my sincere condolences to Ivan’s family and friends. “A real, loyal Dundonian has passed on and hopefully will never be forgotten.” The Courier pays tribute to Ivan Kloke, who did so much in service of his town – above and beyond the call of duty. He will be greatly missed by his family, and we will remember him.

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