Margate Moves: Roel’s legacy will live on
He came to South Africa from The Netherlands as a young man shortly after World War II.
Roel Germs, a long-time resident of Southbroom, died last week at the ripe old age of 89.
He has left a legacy that will be difficult to match. Roel came to South Africa from The Netherlands as a young man shortly after World War II. Over the years he made his name as a builder, being involved in numerous constructions, including that of Rand Park Golf Club.
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He was married to Bessie and they had three children, Gail, Meryl and Jenny. They have five grandchildren. Golf was his other passion. Very much so. He excelled at football too, but golf was his first love in terms of sport.
He once got down to a scratch handicap, even if it was only for two months!
His daughter Jenny inherited his golfing skill – and then some – forging a career out of the sport.
Roel was a member at Southbroom Golf Club and he enjoyed many years of happy retirement in the family home alongside the 3rd fairway. He served on the committee as captain and president at various times.
Roel was also incredibly difficult to beat on the course, with his handling of his famous, if unsightly potato-shaped putter, causing opponents much anguish.
It’s fair to say he earned a reputation among his best friends (and family) as one ‘stubborn Dutchman’! Yet, he was a man who initiated projects, was true to his word, and simply loved to see things improved – his way, of course!
What Roel enjoyed most was being involved on the greens committee and he did much to make changes to the golf course over the years.
He was also a Nomad of some note, well known for handling the scoring at events like the Million Dollar at Sun City.
The camaraderie at Nomads was something he loved and there aren’t many who have done more for this wonderful organisation.
He never lost his zest for life, and also never lost his Dutch accent, something which was a source of much mirth for his friends.
It was perhaps fitting, in a sense, that he died the week of Nationals, currently being played in East London, where Southern KZN flew its flag at half-mast out of respect for him.
Long-time local and former Sewing Circle owner Pamela Dames celebrated her 80th birthday last week.
Pam is a leap year baby and so celebrated her ’20th’ birthday in Margate, with her family, both local and from abroad.
Pam was born on the South Coast and attended Margate Primary as one of its first pupils.
She has lived in Margate her entire life.
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