Former Blue Bull dies
Former rugby player André Skinner died of cancer in hospital on Wednesday morning.
Former Blue Bulls player André Skinner lost his battle against cancer on Wednesday morning.
Skinner died at the age of 56. He lived in Hartebeespoort.
He sat on the bench for the Springboks and played for the Northern Transvaal and Tukkies rugby teams.
The news about his death went viral on social media on Wednesday morning, with friends, family and rugby players conveying their condolences.
Skinner’s lifelong friend Piet Kruger told Rekord that he died around 00:30 in hospital.
“André was admitted in hospital last week on Monday because of fluid on his lungs. I saw him on Friday and Saturday,” said Kruger.
He said Skinner was looking tired.
Skinner was diagnosed with cancer last year. Kruger said neither radiotherapy or chemotherapy could save Skinner and he resorted to alternative treatment, which did not help.
“André was a talented and honest rugby player. He was called the gentle giant and was a wonderful person. Sometimes we gave each other advice even though we did not always play together,” Kruger said.
“Yes, one can say we were close friends.”
Facebook user Linlee Solms posted that Skinner,s family and the country had lost a great man.
“R.I.P André Skinner. We are so sad about the loss of such a legend, not only within our family but also within the S.A rugby world. I will never forget your story telling, your humour, your love for family and friends. We will miss you greatly. May God hold your family safely in His arms and comfort them in this difficult time.”
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