BLOEMFONTEIN – The grief-stricken family of Benjamin van Wyk who died after drowning in the Witherow quarry in Heidedal are turning to crowdfunding for funeral costs because they cannot afford the expense. Police divers retrieved his body yesterday, on Thursday 23 October, seven days after he had tragically drowned in the waters during a swimming adventure.
The date for the funeral is yet to be determined as the family is also awaiting the postmortem. Van Wyk (20) tragically drowned on 16 October. Despite relief after his body was recovered, distress over funeral expenses is another difficult part of the tragic chapter.
Only the victim’s mother, Elizabeth van Wyk, is working – and the father, Llowallen Minnie, is unemployed.
“As the family – Van Wyk and Minnie – we are appealing for any help towards Benjamin’s funeral, and we will appreciate any such help to bury him with dignity. My wife is the sole breadwinner providing for our family of four. It would have been a different matter if I were working,” said Minnie.
Hamlet Scheepers, member of the Heidedal Neighbourhood Association, has called on the community to continue supporting the bereaved family.
“As members of the association, we are appealing to show our kindness as the community, making any contribution towards the funeral costs. Their financial constraints due to unemployment is the reality of our daily lives, hence we are also appealing for any help from the community.
“As the association, we are continuing to support the affected family,” said Scheepers.
The arrangements for the funeral will be made known once the police have completed the postmortem.
Those willing to assist can contact Scheepers 065 578 500.
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