Family loses their pillar of strength

On Sunday, July 18, a family of four was reduced to a family of three when they lost their pillar of strength and the backbone of their family, André Haasbroek.

André was only 50 years old when he sadly succumbed to Covid-19, leaving behind his wife Amanda and two young sons, Gideon and Johan. Not only was he a pillar for his family, but also for Wings of Inspiration Care Centre – a Christian-based non-profit company in Roodepoort.

“We own a property and when the previous tenants moved out we advertised for new tenants. Wings approached us, asked if they could rent the property, and told us of their vision to start a sober house. Because they are non-profit they aren’t always able to pay the rent, and André and I usually gave them some grace,” Amanda explained.

He always stood firm in what he believed. If he believed something was right, he would stand tall and strong, even if it meant he stood alone.

“He was not a crowd follower. He set the example and others could choose to follow or not. He had an intense passion for gaining knowledge and as a result he knew much about almost everything. He could have a conversation with anyone about engines, food, electronics, computers, religion, plumbing and politics, among other things,” she said.

“He had an interest in everyone he met and wanted to know more about them. And he remembered everything. If you told him something five years ago and he saw you in the mall he would ask you about it. He had a deep, strong faith; an honest faith. He always said you can’t lie to God so when he prayed he was honest. His faith in God kept him going.”

He will always be remembered as an amazing father too. He taught his sons how things work; he taught them values and respect. Gideon and Johan will always remember how their father used to wrestle with them on the bed for about half an hour before turning off the lights.

“He fixed everything with his glue gun. He fixed toys, shoes, appliances – anything he was able to work on in his wheelchair was fixed,” Amanda said.

“He was a wonderful husband. He would always bring me breakfast and a cup of coffee or lunch, and sit next to me while I’m working. He cooked all our meals. I haven’t cooked a meal in five years and he was a very good cook.”

To be on a motorcycle on a dirt road was heaven for this avid rider, but after suffering an aneurysm he could no longer ride; something he missed doing.

Despite his physical limitations he enjoyed going out to spend quality time with his family.

“He was very generous. Where possible he would give to people what we had. Everyone knew if you battled with something or needed advice, you call André,” Amanda said.

“I also loved his laugh. When he really laughed, his whole belly would bounce up and down, tears would stream down his face. You couldn’t help but smile or laugh with him.”

André taught those around him about faith, honesty, integrity and to stand firm for what they believe in. He taught them to do the right thing, even if it’s unpopular – especially if it’s unpopular.

Amanda will forever cherish the memories of her late husband and will make sure to remind their children of the loving, kind-hearted person that was their father.