Community mourns death of their ‘Father Christmas’
“The Lord came to pick one of His most beautiful flowers."
The Moot’s most beloved Father Christmas, Robbie Salmon (69), sadly passed away on Tuesday morning due to Covid-19 related issues.
Salmon would have celebrated his 70th birthday in August this year.
He was the gentle giant behind the annual Christmas drive project as the face of Santa Claus.
His wife, Noekie, said her husband was a “gentle giant with a huge heart”.
“He lived for days such as the Christmas project to see all the happy faces on the elderly’s faces as well as the children’s smiles.
“He was known as ‘Oom Bus’ as he used to be the driver of the school bus.
“I don’t know how I will cope.
“His death still feels unreal. I know I will miss him and I know our family and friends will also miss him,” she said.
Xander Loubser, of Ambu-Link ambulance services, said that Salmon was like a father figure to him.
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“For the past four years, he was involved in the community drive.
“My heart is in pieces and I will find my comfort in the fact that you are now where you belong.
“The Lord came to pick one of His most beautiful flowers,” Loubser said.
Youngster Lawrence-Lee Thorpe and some community members gathered at Laerskool Bergsig on Tuesday evening to commemorate his life.
Strict Covid-19 regulations were adhered to.
“I have known oom Robbie and his wife for about three years,” said Thorpe.
“I will miss him sorely because of his pure heart and his willingness to always lend a hand where needed.
“He played a significant role in my life and I will always remember him.”
DA councillor Elma Nel said their hearts were “truthfully hurt” after the news about his sudden death.
“So many children in our community knew the man as the real Santa Claus and for the rest of us, he will leave a huge gap in our hearts that no one else will be able to fill.
“Noekie and all his loved ones are in our thoughts and prayers,” she said.
The date for his memorial service is yet to be confirmed.
He leaves behind two children and his wife.
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