Update
KNYSNA NEWS - Grief hung heavily over the home of Lauren Fredericks on Thursday 7 May as family, friends and colleagues gathered to comfort one another after the tragic death of the well-known social auxiliary worker.
During a visit to the family home, the Knysna-Plett Herald witnessed emotional scenes as loved ones remembered the 37-year-old as a selfless, vibrant and compassionate woman whose life centred around helping others.
Fredericks died yesterday, 6 May, after a large tree crashed onto her vehicle due to severe storm conditions while she and a colleague were on duty, assisting communities affected by the destructive weather.
Her colleague, Dorinne du Toit, recalled the moments before the traumatic incident.
“We had stopped briefly at a nearby shop before continuing with our work. I told Lauren to take any available parking, but she wanted the parking closest to the shop because of the foul weather,” she said.
Fredericks stayed in the car while Du Toit went into the shop. Moments later, while still in the shop, Du Toit heard what she described as a loud crashing sound.
“When I came outside and saw the tree on top of the car, I was in shock. For a few seconds I couldn’t breathe and then I started screaming for help,” she said.
Police officers arrived on the scene within minutes as emergency services were already monitoring storm-related incidents in the area.
Disaster response team leader
Fredericks was an acting development worker and also the disaster response team leader at her office. Those who worked closely with her said she approached her duties with passion and pride.
“She loved her work and gave everything to it,” said another colleague, Bernadene Links-Heuvel. “She would joke with us every month, saying she was once again the ‘Pringle’ of the office; meaning the top-of-the-range potato chip.”
Links-Heuvel described her as someone whose infectious personality could brighten even the most difficult days.
“She just had a way of lifting people’s spirits, no matter what. Her absence is already being felt deeply at the office.”
Lauren’s brother
Speaking through tears at the family home, Fredericks’ brother, Griffith Lewis, said he had lost not only a sibling, but also his closest confidant.
“We grew up extremely close. Like any brother and sister, we had our disagreements, but we always made peace quickly. Back in the day she encouraged me to pursue my studies and supported me throughout. Lauren always made time for people. She loved bringing everyone together and making sure they felt comfortable and included.”
According to Lewis, Fredericks had a natural ability to put others before herself, even during her own struggles.
“She would never focus on her own problems. Instead, she would ask about yours and do whatever she could to help.”
Fredericks is survived by her husband, Frank, her son, Miquel, her mother, Laetitia Lewis and her father, Clayton Lewis.
The family said the funeral is expected to take place next Saturday, with final details still being confirmed.
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