“To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.”

These words from Scottish poet, Thomas Campbell, has never rung more true for the community of JB Marks than on this, Thursday morning.

Matlhomola Victor Boqo, a long serving journalist at the Herald and later on a communication specialist with the municipality passed away on Wednesday evening. The exact cause of his death is still unclear at this stage, but according to sources he had been sick for some time.

Boqo spent many years as a journalist with the Potchefstroom Herald where he had a profound impact on the community.

“I remember Vic, as a guy who knew everyone. I got to know him as the guy you went to, to help you get a story. He was the first one to show me the ropes and help me build contacts when I started as a journalist,” said Dustin Wetdewich. Editor of the Potchefstroom Herald.

After his career at the Herald, Boqo moved into the government space, first as the spokesperson for the then executive mayor, Kgotso Khumalo and later in various departments.

He will be remembered for his infectious laughter that would light up a room, his determined work ethic and the love he had for his community.

“Even though Vic moved on from the newspaper, he was still always one of us. There is a black cloud over the newsroom today. We will miss him dearly, my prayers go out to his family in this difficult time,” Wetdewich said.

Boqo leaves behind a wife and three children.