Robert Alexander dies

“Springs has lost another favourite stage personality,” says Dennis Watson, an old friend of Robert Alexander.

Robert (73) died on January 13 after a lengthy illness.

Watson says Robert will be remembered for his many stage and concert appearances at the Springs Civic Theatre and other community halls in Springs.

“He had a God-given talent for singing and performing on stage and it was during the 70s through to the 90s that he became part of the community of actors and players who entertained thousands of theatre-goers,” says Watson.

He played many roles for various societies and, according to Watson, threw himself into each of his roles with professional zeal, especially when he sensed it was tailor-made for him.

Watson described Robert as a “gregarious extrovert with a delightful sense of humour”.

“He had his ups and downs, which were part of his mercurial temperament, but when he was with his friends he could brighten up the conversation with his sense of fun,” says Watson.

Robert was educated at Potchefstroom High.

He married Anne Hocknell and, except for a short period in Cape Town,  they both worked and lived in Springs for most of their married life.

Watson says Robert was a home-loving man and devoted most of his time to his work and to raising his family of two adopted daughters.

“He was a skilled baker and cook and often entertained friends and family with excellent meals,” says Watson.

According to Watson Robert was also a keen gardener and he and Anne were both good ballroom dancers.

Robert leaves behind his wife Anne, their daughters Michelle and Carol-Ann.

His memorial service was on January 16 at the Anglican Church.