Death of Paolo Meneghel mourned

Born in San Giorgio Di Nogaro, Friuli, Italy in 1938, Paolo emigrated to South Africa in 1961 to join his brother Fiorenzo Meneghel and the many Italians who travelled here to work at Saiccor.

A talented footballer in his youth, Paolo represented his region in various north Italian league teams including Sangiorgina, Marzotto and for a period of time, Genoa and Torino.

On arrival in South Africa, he joined the Saiccor football team and in his first year they were top of the Natal league. Upon retirement from playing, Paolo trained the Saiccor and Juventus Durban youth football teams.

In 1964, Paolo married Daniela and they had two children, Cristina and Nicoletta. In October the couple would have celebrated 50 years of marriage.

Competitive by nature and a man who enjoyed the company of others, Paolo transferred his interest in sports to the bowling green and became a member of the Umkomaas Bowling Club in 1980.

Over the years, Paolo was mixed pairs, men’s pairs, men’s singles and handicap singles champion four, five, eight and two times respectively.

He was also the Natal Southern District Bowling Association’s singles champion four times and pairs champion in 1997. He spoke highly of all his bowling friends and loved nothing more than to spend time on the green in his whites.

When he wasn’t bowling, Paolo enjoyed the simple pleasures in life, proudly looking after his home and garden; supporting his favourite football team Juventus and all competitive sports; and most of all spending time in the company of his family, either here or abroad, ideally over an excellent Italian meal with some very good wine.

Paolo was a kind gentleman who was held in high regard by all who knew him. He is survived by his wife Daniela, daughters Cristina and Nicoletta and grandchildren Cole, Max and Alex.

The Meneghel family thanks everyone for their overwhelming kindness and support during this difficult time.