Learners, teachers and alumni of Hoërskool Linden paid a solemn farewell to one of their most beloved teachers during her memorial at the school on 16 April.
Long-time Afrikaans teacher Susan Coetzee, affectionately dubbed ‘Lovey’ by those who knew her well, passed away at the age of 58.
Coetzee was described by her colleages as a passionate and wise member of staff.
As a youngster, she attended Hoërskool Linden, matriculating in 1977, returning to the school only a few years later as a teacher.
English teacher and past classmate Mariet Jordaan said, “She was at the heart of our school, professional above all, and was always a mild-mannered person. As teachers, we saw her as ‘the wise one’, meaning that you could always go to her for advice and opinions on matters in the school. Whenever we faced problems, she was always the calm one in the storm.
“She sometimes came across as strict, but this was her passion for teaching that came out, and every single learner respected her. Even those who left the school and came back as alumni years later for a visit commended her for everything that she taught them.”
Economics teacher and Coetzee’s former classmate Michelle Maritz said, “Her nickname, ‘Lovey’, was something that she used to call children all the time, which eventually became part of what we all remember.
“There is something about Lovey that we will always miss. She was always somebody that you felt free to talk to about anything, and what you saw with her is what you got, and most of all, she respected herself and her passion.”
Head girl and matric learner Thinette du Toit said, “Being head girl, I got to know her well. You would hear stories of how strict she could be, and that is a bit intimidating. But once you got to know her, you realise that she was such a kind person with a heart of gold. She was never shy to give somebody a compliment for their good work, and was always welcoming.”
Matric learner Chloe van Deventer said, “She provided the knowledge for us to have prudence over our futures, especially in the language of Afrikaans. With her strong values and passion for teaching, it really instilled the love of Afrikaans in our hearts.”
Head boy and matric learner Marig Engelbrecht said, “I was in her class in Grade 9, and I had a great time with her. She really had a heart for her subject, but even more so for her kids. She was strict, but in a good way with really pure intentions that we will always value as students. I think the world lacks passionate people like her, and we will always remember her.”
Related articles:
