Ben Pretorius of Izotsha celebrates 100th birthday
The centenarian is the proud father of six children, 21 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.
A milestone few reach was joyfully celebrated when Ben Pretorius marked his 100th birthday surrounded by family and friends at the Packshed Restaurant recently.
Born on January 29, 1926, Ben reached his centenary milestone with a life story spanning nearly the entire modern era – from world wars and economic hardship to technological revolutions and sweeping social change. Over the course of his lifetime, he witnessed historic global events including World War II, the aftermath of the Great Depression, the Cold War, the civil rights movement and the rise of the internet.
The celebration reflected a life rich in family. Ben is the proud father of six children – Chris, Bennie, Ockie, Jenny, Annemarie and Emmarentia – as well as 21 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren. About 50 family members gathered to honour the man they affectionately call “Big Oupa”. His children described their father as a hardworking and deeply loved family man.
“His birthday celebration is a clear indication of just how loved he is. So many family members came together to celebrate our father, who truly is a special man.”
In his younger years, Ben worked as a builder and businessman before turning to farming in Southport, where he grew avocados, litchis and bananas. Remarkably independent well into his later years, he renewed his driver’s licence in July 2024 and continued delivering fresh produce to local supermarkets on his own.
Sadly, a fire in his home, caused by the fridge about six months ago, took a heavy toll on Ben. He is still recovering, working to regain his strength and remain active and self-sufficient.
As candles were blown out and stories shared, the gathering served as more than just a birthday celebration.
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