The Vryheid community is mourning the passing of Terry Bunge, the founder of the Vryheid Herald, whose vision, leadership and passion helped establish a newspaper that continues to serve the community decades later.

Bunge passed away on Thursday, October 29, at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy that extends beyond community journalism.

He will be remembered as a devoted family man, a respected community leader, man of faith and someone who played an important role in the development of Vryheid.

A life dedicated to family and community

Bunge arrived in Vryheid in 1960 as manager of Edworks (1936) Ltd. It was here that he built his family life with his wife, Pamela (Pam) Jean, and three daughters, Hayley, Cheryl and Lee Ann.

His daughters are now married and together with Pam, he was blessed with grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Beyond his family, Bunge dedicated himself to the affairs of Vryheid, serving on numerous committees and contributing to various organisations. He was charter chairman of Vryheid Round Table in 1967, was elected to the Town Council in 1973, and went on to serve as deputy mayor in 1979 and mayor in 1980.

His interests also extended to conservation and fellowship. He was the founding president of the Lancaster Wine Guild, served twice as chairman of the KwaZulu-Natal Hunters & Game Conservation Association and was a member of the MOTH organisation.

A man guided by faith

His faith was another important part of his life, as he served in various positions within the Methodist Church. Bunge often acknowledged God as the guiding force behind his journey.

“I give all credit to my creator, God. For not only has He been my spiritual inspiration, but my mentor and guide throughout my life,” he once said.

Robyn Wynberg remembered him as: “Such a great man. A true man of God.”

The birth of the Vryheid Herald

One of Bunge’s most everlasting contributions to the town was the establishment of the Vryheid Herald.

In May 1984, following an extensive survey conducted in Vryheid, the idea of introducing another newspaper to the town was pursued. Determined to find an economical and effective way of producing the publication, Bunge explored various newspaper production methods and consulted editors of small-town newspapers. He also discussed modern production methods with Rob Burns, then editor of the Northern Natal Courier.

Bunge then formed the Vryheid Publication Company (Pty) Ltd, with the vision of producing a weekly newspaper with a print run of more than 6400 copies, distributed door-to-door and free of charge to homes throughout Vryheid.

Of the names submitted for the new publication, Vryheid Herald was the one approved by the Department of Internal Affairs. The newspaper was later sold in 1997, after which Bunge and his family relocated to Howick, where he remained until his passing.

Remembered by those who worked alongside him

For those who worked alongside him, Bunge’s legacy was not only about establishing a newspaper, but also about the people he encouraged and the opportunities he created.

Christel Küsel, who continues to work at the Vryheid Herald, was appointed by Bunge shortly after completing her studies. Reflecting on her time working under him, she recalls how he immediately made her feel welcome and supported her professional development.

“It is with a heavy heart that I write this, as words cannot fully capture everything. He was more than just a boss to me; he has been a mentor, a confidante and a true friend. His genuine kindness and rare, beautiful soul touched my life in ways I never imagined possible.

“His appreciation messages always lifted our spirits and made us feel valued. He constantly encouraged me to step up, instilling in me the confidence to grow both personally and professionally.”

Terry Worley of the Northern Natal Courier also paid tribute to Bunge, recalling their first meeting in Dundee when he was just an ‘appie’ journalist working under Rob Burns, who was then in partnership with Bunge.

Worley said, “I was immediately struck by his warmth, his willingness to listen to everyone and his wonderful sense of humour.’’ He described Bunge as a man deeply passionate about his town, whose decision to establish the Vryheid Herald created a lasting legacy for the community.

Worley also remembered the Wednesdays when Bunge and his staff travelled to Dundee to prepare the newspaper at Burns’ factory. “Those were great days, filled with friendship, incredible passion and an admirable work ethic.”

He added that Bunge had left deep tracks, not only in community journalism but also in the town of Vryheid. “Thank you, Terry, for your friendship and wise counsel. My deepest condolences to Pam and the family.”

A legacy of love, guidance and faith

For his family, Bunge’s greatest legacy will always be the love, guidance and faith he shared with them.

His daughter, Cheryl, paid an emotional tribute following his passing, remembering him as an amazing man, wonderful husband, incredible father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

Quoting 2 Timothy 4:7, she wrote: I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

“We are going to miss you so much, Dad. You have left an amazing legacy behind. Thank you for guiding our family with unwavering faith. May you find rest in the arms of our Saviour.”

Although Bunge’s journey has come to an end, the newspaper he envisioned and the lives he touched remain part of his lasting legacy.

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.