Joburg Zoo volunteer appreciated on his 90th birthday
PARKVIEW – It was an important man's birthday and a mouth-watering feast was prepped to celebrate the life of David Begley as he turned 90.
A day arrived, when a retired chartered accountant, David Begley walked through the doors of the Johannesburg Zoo as a volunteer 14 years ago and changed colleagues’ lives with his kindness and humility.
A teacher, perfectionist and too-active-for-an-old-man, are the words used by his loved ones to best describe him.
In return for his selfless contribution, the staff at the zoo saw Begley’s 90th birthday as a platform to praise David so they threw an intimate surprise party for him, which was attended by colleagues and family on 25 April.
Begley’s granddaughter, Roxy Keder was amazed at some of the speeches dedicated to her grandfather.
“Grandpa is very strong and energetic; you would not even realise he’s 90; he’s impacted people’s lives and he doesn’t even notice; he has always been humble,” said Roxy.
The fascinating quality that Begley possesses has to be his consistency, following his transition from an air-conditioned office and high-paying job, to unexpectedly spending most of his days taking care of birds at the zoo.
“I called the zoo 14 years ago, asking to be a volunteer but was told maybe I can drive a tractor, which I refused. I came personally and was sent to training shortly after enquiring,” said Begley, who adds that a pal had whispered the idea in his ear after revealing his passion for birds.
During a lengthy speech, Grace Ntsoane took a trip down memory lane and highlighted the first time she met Begley, who taught her a few valuable life lessons.
“We are short-staffed, but Dave is always helping us. He is like an angel and we are very happy to have him. I would like to thank him from the bottom of my heart for always working hard like he is permanent staff,” said Ntsoane, who was also an MC at the birthday celebration.
Begley said this has become his purpose in life and he will continue to invest his time, taking care of his beloved birds.
“I feed birds fresh food and clean water. I also wash the birds’ dishes. My favourite bird is actually an Amur falcon,” said the birthday guy.
The intimate party was filled with positive emotions, tasty food and to top it all, a birthday cake, depicting his love of birds.
“I don’t get the fuss because I am just turning 90. All those good things they said about me, I don’t really deserve them,” he laughed modestly.
Volunteers have come and gone but in contrast, Dave, as affectionately known by those close to him, has his youthful colleagues begging him neither to resign from the zoo nor from the earth.
Do you know anyone who is extraordinarily involved in their community? Send your stories to koketsor@caxton.co.za
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