Dear Margie, Charlotte, Rowena, Robyn, Sean, Ryder and Jenny,

Gerhard and I would like to express our sincere condolences to all of you. We share your loss and are greatly saddened by the big gap now left in your lives. We will miss Gavin as a friend, colleague and wonderful grandfather.

 When Hardi first told us about Charlotte his words were “Ma, hulle gesin is net soos ons sin: toe sy klein was, was daar ook altyd vreemde mense wat by hul huis oorgebly het”. 

That was very true and reflected the fact that both Gavin and Gerhard were scientists and shared a similar working life, where colleagues from many parts of the world regularly stayed over.

Our families became very close with our shared anxiety with Sean’s early arrival and many months of worry about his development. Ultimately, we shared the joy that Sean and Jenny are beautiful and loving grandchildren, with many unique talents and sparkling personalities.

Here are a few photos reflecting the many happy times we shared in Australia - memories we shall cherish forever.