Beloved Dr WK Du Plessis School deputy principal dies
He is remembered for his kindness, inclusivity and dedication.
Dr WK Du Plessis School deputy principal Etienne Flies (57) died recently, leaving behind a loving community, two sons, a daughter and a granddaughter.
His daughter, Leané Flies (19), and sons Henno (29) and Marco (32) Flies, remember him as a loving and involved father.
His ex-wife and years-long friend Noelien Flies (58) from Petersfield remembered him as a kind, passionate teacher with a love for sport.
He was a rugby and cricket player for the Springs first teams for years, and throughout the years, a well-known cricket coach for hundreds of boys.
“He was gentle with care for people who put himself second, and always available to help. He taught his sons how to hunt and fish with patience,” said Noelien.
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Etienne ran nine Comrades Marathons but did not finish his 10th, something Noelien teased him about frequently. The two met at the Goudstadse Onderwyskollege where both were studying teaching.
Etienne started his career at Laerskool Jan van Riebeeck, before becoming head of a department at Laerskool Werda, then Laerskool Selection Park, and finally appointed deputy principal at Dr WK Du Plessis.
“It is with profound sadness that we acknowledge the passing of our esteemed deputy principal, Mr Etienne Flies,” a statement from the school reads.
“Throughout his 34 years of teaching experience, including 18 years of dedicated service to Dr WK Du Plessis School and 15 years as our deputy principal, he exemplified humility and inclusivity, consistently engaging all stakeholders in collaborative decision-making.
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“His dedication to the academic success of our learners was particularly evident in his meticulous planning and administrative oversight of the Grade 12 National Senior Certificate examinations,” the statement continues.
Etienne taught English for years, but during his tenure as deputy principal, he taught agricultural studies for Grade 10s.
Children loved him and he never needed to yell. The children reportedly just listened to him because of how he carried himself.
The highlights of his life included the birth of his three children, the Comrades Marathons he completed and his two opportunities during his own school career to play in the rugby Craven Week – once in primary school, and once in high school.
A low point was the passing of his mother, Rita Flies, four years ago from cancer.
