Farming community in Standerton loses a legend
Robert was born on September 5, 1952 in Jansenville in the Eastern Cape and despite never living there, he was a passionate Western Province supporter throughout his life.
Mr Robert Scott, a well-known figure in the farming community, passed away on June 22 at the age of 68.
He died after contracting the coronavirus.
The Kerslake family, life-long friends, described Robert as an exceptional human being, living life to the fullest with an infectious enthusiasm.
They took time to compile a profile on a man considered to be a legend in the agricultural environment.
Robert was born on September 5, 1952 in Jansenville in the Eastern Cape and despite never living there, he was a passionate Western Province supporter throughout his life.
Rugby was one of his great passions and he also had a keen interest in pigeons.
“He loved and cared for his racing pigeons and was proud of them, especially when they were winning,” the family reminisced.
He played an active role in his church, always helping with fundraising and church bazaars.
Family commitments were important to him and he always made time for his family, no matter how busy he was at work.
His grandchildren were definitely a priority.
Although not a great fisherman himself, he loved to take them fishing and many a happy hour was spent with them.
He leaves behind one daughter, one son and six grandchildren.
As area relationship manager at Unigro (a division of Afgri) for the past 17 years, financial advice was given and farmers were motivated.
He was previous employed at Standard Bank.
“Robert supported the farming community in many different capacities, whether at their auction sales or Farmer’s Days,” the Kerslakes said.
“His engaging personality, attention to detail and innate understanding and ability to analyse each situation accurately and quickly, were a huge advantage and led to his steadily-growing client-base.
“All his clients appreciated his loyalty, honesty and ability to get things done quickly and efficiently.”
He knew everyone in the farming community and everyone knew and respected him.
Robert will especially be remembered for the support given with the Val Boeredag.
“With his commitment and the sponsorship from Afgri, the Val Boeredag was able to grow from small beginnings to the renowned event it has become on the farming calendar.”
The family added that he had a great sense of humour and was a constant source of interesting information.
Robert also loved his food, and no braai was complete without some freshly-baked bread, butter and jam.
At any farming function, Robert’s steak grilled in butter, was a guaranteed crowd favourite.
He was married to Alida Scott for 45 years before she passed away in 2019 and after her unexpected death, he stoically managed to get on with his life.
A second marriage to Lina, a friend and colleague from his Standard Bank days, followed in 2020.
The Kerslakes concluded with saying their thoughts go out to Lina, as well as his mother Vinci, who recently celebrated her 90th birthday.
“We will cherish your memory and never forget the part you played in our lives.”
