Davidsonville says goodbye to their oldest community member
His funeral was held on Friday, 24 July, and while it was a sad occasion, his family made sure to spend the day celebrating his life rather than mourning his death.
Martinus de Jaap will always be remembered by the Davidsonville community as one of the most friendly and outgoing people anyone could meet.
Martinus was born on 15 May 1927 and sadly passed away on 17 July at the age of 93 due to natural causes. He was well-loved in the tight-knit Davidsonville community; he was the oldest resident and was energetic until his last days.
This well-respected member of the community was an avid participant in church services. He was a member of the Davidsonville Old Age Club and very active in their sports activities. “He was always participating in the sports that the club offered and actually came in first place for the elderly athletics competition,” said his smiling family.
Death is undeniably painful and sad for those left behind, but Martinus’ family is comfortable in the fact that he had lived a long happy life, dedicated to his family and church. Members of his church said they would remember him for his faith and enthusiasm.
“He had a special seat where he would always sit and shout ‘Hallelujah’ throughout the service.” Martinus’ joy came from cooking, baking, planting flowers and spending time with his huge family. He would often make koeksisters, vetkoek, dumplings and delicious meals for his family. His funeral was held on Friday, 24 July, and while it was a sad occasion, his family made sure to spend the day celebrating his life rather than mourning his death.
Martinus passed with a huge family to carry on his legacy: he was a father to three sons and five daughters, 17 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.
