The family has identified the driver of a bakkie, who lost his life after colliding with a bus on the R559 near Blaauwbank on March 23, as 81-year-old Coenie Groenewald.

Coenie, a husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, was known for his warmth, kindness and expertise in the agricultural sector. His wife, Susan Groenewald, said he ran a baler repair business, helping farmers across the province and even in Botswana, often assisting with all farming equipment well into his later years.

“Even in his old age, he would still go to farmers who would call for help. Sadly, at the time of his passing, he was returning from work in Carletonville when the accident occurred,” said his son Riaan Groenewald.

Related article: Bakkie and school bus collide on R559, one fatality reported

The crash has renewed concerns over the hazardous conditions of the R559, which residents have long cited for its potholes, poor maintenance and inadequate signage.

Riaan suspects his father collided with the back of a school bus that had stopped to avoid potholes.

Resident Kobus van Zyl, who arrived at the scene, previously urged the municipality to repair the road, warning that accidents would continue if the dangerous conditions were not addressed.

The community mourns a life well-lived, remembering Coenie for his generosity, skill and the countless lives he touched, while his family calls for urgent action to prevent further tragedies on the R559.

The Randfontein Herald will provide updates as more official information becomes available.

Read an in-depth profile of Coenie in the next edition of the Randfontein Herald, dated April 3.

Coenie’s funeral will take place from 10:00 at AGS Randfontein in Randgate on March 31.