African Wildlife & Environment Issue 78

ECO HERO

Carina, older daughter living in Trondheim, Norway - One of my fondest early memories of my dad was of us flying over the Kruger National Park late one afternoon as the sun was setting over the African savannah. Much to my delight, he allowed my five-year-old self to hold the joystick for a few moments to fly the Cessna. Later in life, that was how he would let me try out his RC planes and drone, while still holding tightly onto the controllers, just for safety. It is no secret that my dad loved flying, and that he went doing what he loved. As I matured into adulthood, our relationship grew into friendship as I recognised in him a kindred spirit. My dad instilled in me so many lessons, and so much wisdom about life. Even though he knew the joys of adventures, he also acknowledged the challenges life presented. He loved people. He was wise, knowledgeable, and

sense of responsibility, independence, integrity, and hard work. I will admit that, not for lack of trying, I have yet to master the precision and methodical approach with which he tackled every task. Where he used a laser pointer, spirit level, electrical tester, masking tape, drill, plastic wall plug, and screw, I would eyeball it with some double-sided tape. When things went wrong, as they invariably did, Dad was on my speed-dial with the perfect, elegant solution. Most of you know my dad as a patient man, but I readily admit that testing his patience was a regular childhood pursuit of mine. At age seven, in Arusha, I trimmed the whiskers of our newly adopted cat because I thought that they were too long and looked funny. My father, understanding that the cat would have difficulty navigating the nooks and crannies of rural Tanzania was extremely displeased. Needless to say, no cat ever received a whisker trim from me again. His magnetism was such that, once you were in his orbit, he would either leave a lasting impression or alter your life forever. His presence featured so strongly in my life, and his absence so glaringly. He dedicated, and ultimately gave, his life pursuing his passion for wildlife conservation. I can only strive to live my life dedicated so fearlessly to that in which I believe. I think he would be content leaving us at the apex of his life - a life fully lived - still a spring in his step, doing what he loved. He was a magnificent storyteller, a true intellectual, passionate about his work and a supporting, understanding, kind and loving man.

had a childlike curiosity and love of learning that belied his age. My dad taught me that retirement is not real - he loved working hard and gave passionately to the work he cared deeply about He had a true love of nature and a respect for the great outdoors. All this, and so much more I learned from my dad. Dad, I know this isn't goodbye, because I carry you in my heart. I know you're exploring new horizons now, and I'm sure you find that pretty exciting. So, until we meet again, ek is lief vir jou, Pa. Shanine (Nini), younger daughter living in Amsterdam, The Netherlands - My dad was an incredible father. We had an extraordinary childhood, filled with adventure. He instilled in us not only a love of nature, but also a great

54 | African Wildlife & Environment | Issue 78 (2021)