Mourners pay tribute to Westville dad

Published Jul 17, 2015

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Durban - The untimely death of Westville father Yashin Bagwandeen, who was shot while protecting his family on Tuesday, brought together teachers and former pupils of the 1989 matric class of Gandhi Desai Secondary School in Durban on Thursday.

The Clare Estate Crematorium’s main hall, where the funeral service was held, was filled to capacity by hundreds of family, friends and members of the public.

Many said Bagwandeen was a hero, a staunch community servant, and a friend who was able to make people happy.

The funeral service had to run simultaneously with the viewing of Bagwandeen’s body and paying of respects to his family because of the number of people attending.

Bagwandeen’s childhood friend, a former radio station executive and now senior director of corporate affairs at the Durban University of Technology, Alan Khan, spoke on behalf of the class of 1989.

 

Khan said some, from around the world, had posted their messages on Facebook and sent e-mails, expressing their shock and disbelief at Bagwandeen’s death.

“As you can expect, the impact of Yashin’s sudden passing earlier this week was felt by loved ones across the world – from New Zealand and Australia, to the US and Canada … such was the impact Yashin had made on the lives of those in his circle of love,” he said.

Bagwandeen was well-known on social media pages for his participation and sharing of information.

His cousin Yajna Ramdass said people were always waiting to read his posts and discussions on Facebook. She said Bagwandeen could educate anyone on any topic.

Khan said: “The last time we communicated was a week ago after my talk show last Thursday night. Yashin messaged me and congratulated me on speaking out about the way the world treats its senior citizens, highlighting the plight of the elderly and the disrespect many show towards their parents.

“These were the issues that mattered most to Yashin – making South Africa a better place – whether it was a witty or smart post online, sending out stories that highlighted the danger of genetically modified foods or spreading love and laughter.”

Khan said Bagwandeen paid the ultimate price when he protected his family, and he urged others to maintain his legacy.

“Whether it’s by applying increased pressure on our government, police or councillors, we must work harder to ensure that God-fearing citizens, like Yashin, should not have to pass on in this way,” he said.

Bagwandeen’s high school teacher S E Naidoo, said he was a humble pupil “whom I was very honoured to have taught ”.

 

Bagwandeen is survived by his parents, Vinod and Shara, wife, Larissa, daughters, Yuvani and Sheyana, and his siblings.

The Mercury

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