The St Stithians College community has been plunged into mourning following the tragic passing of two of its own: Grade 11 learner Cameron Waldeck-Cooks and Class of 2025 alumnus Ethan Coetzee.

According to an article by Caxton Local Media’s Lowvelder, Police investigate deaths of two Gauteng teenagers in Sabie, the two teenagers tragically lost their lives in Mpumalanga. Provincial police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo, confirmed the deaths.

“We have opened an inquest docket for investigation. A post-mortem will be conducted to establish the cause of death,” Masondo stated.

A tribute to Cameron Waldeck-Cooks

Cameron (17), who passed away on Monday morning, August 3, began her schooling at St Stithians in Grade R in 2015. Over her 12 years at the school, she became a highly valued member of the Saints family, making a substantial impact on the school and everyone who knew her.

Cameron stood out in both rowing and netball. Her school described her as a “dedicated and passionate rower” who won the respect of her coaches and teammates through her hard work, perseverance, and love for the sport. She was known as a natural leader, often acting as a supportive “big sister” to guide and inspire younger girls in the rowing programme.

The school paid tribute to her character, stating that Cameron will be remembered for her “kindness, warmth and determination”. She was praised for facing life with “resilience, quiet strength and a genuine care for those around her”.

Honouring Ethan Coetzee

The Boys’ College shared profound sadness over the passing of Ethan Coetzee (19), who completed the full Grade R to Grade 12 journey at Saints from 2013 to 2025. Over that time, he established very strong friendships and connections and was described as a young man of strength, commitment, and humility.

Also read: Saints Sports Festival ends on a high note

Whether in the classroom, on the rugby field, in equestrian sport, or in service to others, Ethan approached his passions with great enthusiasm. Awarded Rugby Colours as a member of the 1st XV, a national champion in Eventing, and a respected senior student in Penryn House, he proved to be a keen supporter of junior members of the House and respective sporting teams, earning him the respect of teammates, coaches, and peers alike.

Ethan possessed a natural warmth and charisma that drew people to him. He could instil confidence in others, offering encouragement when it was needed most and making those around him feel seen, valued, and supported.

St Stithians College releases statements

Both the Girls’ and Boys’ Colleges have released statements expressing their deepest sympathies to the grieving families.

“On behalf of the Girls’ College, we send our deep condolences to the Waldeck-Cooks family,” the school shared. They extended similar sentiments to Ethan’s loved ones, adding: “Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his family, friends, the Class of 2025, and all who mourn the loss of this joyful, determined young man. We hold them closely in our prayers and stand alongside them, and one another, as we mourn.”

Messages of support from the greater Sandton and Randburg communities

Community members have also shared their grief and fond memories online, leaving an outpouring of heartfelt messages in social media threads.

Chantel Klug Jarvis shared her condolences for Cameron, writing: “Rest in peace, my beautiful girl. You will always hold such a special place in my heart. I have such wonderful memories of your Junior Prep days, and I feel so privileged to have been part of them. Sending so much love and strength to all your family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.”

Other community members expressed their shock and offered prayers for both families. Malini Pillay commented, “So heartbreaking, sending love and condolences to the family and the community at Saints.” Patience Muzavazi echoed this sentiment, writing, “So heartbreaking. May the Lord grant indescribable peace and comfort to her loved ones during such a difficult time.”

Also read: Saints Sports Festival brings young talent and community together

Follow us on our WhatsApp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates!