Knysna grieves over much-loved "Weatherman"

KNYSNA NEWS - Knysna residents paid their respects to Knysna's most loved car guard, Oom Joseph Booysen (86), also known as The Weatherman.

Booysen's death on 16 April shocked residents, who shared their experiences of Booysen on social media - a familiar, perpetually jovial figure around Knysna Central who could always be relied on for a weather prediction.

Some described him as a smiling and friendly person who dedicated his life to doing his job, guarding cars in Gray Street.

Knysna resident Lynda Sands Gough wrote: "Aah no! Such a pleasant man. Put a smile on my face and a song in my heart every time I walked by. Such a pleasant being, his eyes always sparkling, he was an awesome person. Another angel to guard us from above. Rest in peace dear Jo!"

Another resident, Aschin Klein, said most of them knew Booysen from the parking area behind Absa Bank.

"For others you were a father, a brother and a husband. Condolences to the family of an incredible man Mr Joseph Booysen," he wrote.

Knysna Community Police Forum (CPF) also posted a farewell to Booysen on its Facebook page. "We bid a sad farewell to Joseph Booysen, a well-known proud Red Bib Parking Attendant. Joseph (Jolly Joe) was a familiar sight for many years, often seen welcoming and joking with visitors at his assigned Absa, Gray Street spot. Our deepest sympathy to the family and to all his loved ones. RIP Joseph, thank you for your service," said the CPF.