Messages of support after pilot’s death

Leone and Kobus Dicks. Kobus Dicks was killed when his business jet crashed near the N2 between Caledon and Swellendam. Picture Facebook

Leone and Kobus Dicks. Kobus Dicks was killed when his business jet crashed near the N2 between Caledon and Swellendam. Picture Facebook

Published Dec 9, 2015

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Cape Town - The death of Vryheid businessman Kobus Dicks, killed when the jet he was piloting crashed near Swellendam, was a loss to many people, his friends said on Tuesday.

Although Dicks, 57, and his wife Leone had relocated to a wine estate in Stellenbosch, he still regularly travelled to Vryheid. He was born in Dundee, KwaZulu-Natal, and started his business in the small town.

Dicks had interests in several businesses, including trading in property, transport and meat.

Messages of condolences poured in on Facebook and other online platforms after the news of his death.

Dicks’s family was still finding it difficult to come to terms with his death. The secretary at Stocklush in Vryheid, where Dicks was a managing director, said staff were inundated with calls from people who had heard of his death.

Shamilla Ramkubar, who was employed by Dicks from 1989 until last year, said this was a tragic loss, and described Dicks as a man with “a heart of gold”.

“He did not only expect his staff to do the work, but he worked with them. He was kind-hearted and generous. He was a very successful businessman.

“Everything that he achieved in life is because of his hard work and passion in the meat industry. He is going to be greatly missed by all who knew him. His passing away has shocked the community. “I am devastated,” she said.

Kobus van der Bank said he knew Dicks to be a great pilot.

“He was a passionate businessman and someone who loved his family.”

Nicolene Fourie wrote on Facebook: “Rest in peace Kobus. Thoughts and sympathies to the family. A true Northern Natal legend and your footprint will remain. Strength. May God carry you through this difficult time”.

Devonvale Golf and Wine Estate, where Dicks’s house is situated, said: “It is so sad to hear about one of our homeowners, Kobus Dicks. Our deepest condolences to Leone and the family – you are all in our thoughts and prayers.”

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Cape Times

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