KNYSNA NEWS - Petrus Jacobus van der Merwe - affectionately known as Joe, a nickname given by his grandfather that stuck for life - celebrated his 100th birthday on 24 September.
Born in 1925 on the Elandspruit farm near Lydenburg, Joe has lived through a century of change and challenge. But through it all, one thing remained constant: "My family!" he proudly says.
A life full of joy
Joe's fondest decade was 1958 to 1968, filled with family, camping trips and fishing.
He remembers the joy of his daughters running to greet him at the gate after work - and somehow lifting all four at once. Around the campfires, he played mandolin and mouth organ while his friends joined in with guitars and the piano.
He met his wife, Susanna Elizabeth Ahlers, in the clothing section of the G Scott General Store in Pilgrim's Rest.
Their lasting bond was built on humour, friendship and family fun. The values he passed to his family - integrity, honesty and love - remain central to his legacy.
A sudden move and a final drive
In early 2020, just before the Covid-19 lockdown, Joe relocated from Gonubie, East London, to Knysna. He had been staying in a family home owned by the ex-husband of his third daughter, Diane.
When the house was needed due to financial pressures, Joe packed up and made the trip himself - driving solo one day before the national lockdown began. It was also the last time he ever drove a car. He has lived in Knysna ever since.
Schooling, service and work
Joe attended Pilgrim's Rest School until Standard Six, then completed his matric at Middelburg High School, where he served as a prefect and lieutenant in the cadets.
A keen sportsman, he narrowly missed winning the esteemed victor ludorum by just 0.5 points. He also was an avid rugby player.
During WWII, he joined the Saaf as an instrument technician, working on Dakotas and Venturas in Sudan.
After the war, he returned to Pilgrim's Rest, working as a tube mill shiftman before qualifying as a fitter and turner.
He spent 35 years at Cyanamid in Witbank until retirement.
Wisdom from a long life
Joe's first memory is rabbit hunting with his cousin on his aunt's farm. The moon landing left a lasting impression, and he remains in awe of Dr Chris Barnard's first heart transplant.
He believes moderation and goodwill are keys to a good life.
And when asked for his secret to longevity? He smiles and says: "Keep on breathing!"
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