Well-known hot-air balloon pilot dies of Covid-19
Scenic flights over Magaliesberg will be missed with balloon pilot Bill Harrop (81), who passed away eight days after his wife.
A well-known and loved hot-air balloon pilot and entrepreneur passed away at the weekend.
The 81-year-old Bill Harrop died just eight days after his wife, Mary. The couple had both tested positive for Covid-19.
On his Facebook page, his daughter Sarah Bauling wrote the family was devastated to bring the news that “our dad, our hero gained his angel wings”.
Harrop passed away at 13:25 on Sunday, July 4.
“This ‘storm’ came at him with everything it had. He fought hard, he gave it his all, he did not ‘stand down’… but sadly it simply swept him away,” wrote Bauling.
“Our lives will never be the same.
“We are wrecked knowing that this world has lost a man who gave so much, laughed so easily and lived every second to the fullest.
“Dad you were and always will be remembered as an ‘intrepid aeronaut explorer’… Your enthusiasm for life was contagious and you created and left so many amazing memories for others.
“Dad, you will always be my hero, you will always be my best friend.
“You are dancing with mom among the clouds.
“Thank you for simply everything…
“Until we meet again.”
Harrop’s balloon safari operation has been flying high for over 40 years. His company took scenic flights over the Magaliesberg with the “always smiling” pilot at the steer.
Harrop’s wife Mary had battled oesophagus cancer for the past few months before both became ill with Covid-19. The family kept their supporters and well-wishers up to date on social media.
With both parents gone in such a short time, the family announced it would host an online “celebration of life” in honour of the couple.
The ceremony will take place on Saturday, July 10 at 10:00 for South Africa, 09:00 for the UK, and 18:00 for those in Australia. It will be hosted either on Zoom or live streamed on YouTube.
To watch the live stream on YouTube on Saturday, follow this link: https://youtu.be/9fPVPiAr22c
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