Hundreds of mourners converged at the Netshamavhu family homestead at Mapate outside Thohoyandou to pay their last respects to a fallen community builder and a respected family man, Mr Tshimangadzo Netshamavhu.

A well-known construction company owner and long-serving member at Komatiland Forests, Netshamavhu (56) died a fortnight ago after a long illness and was buried at the weekend. He was described by all as a very humble and dedicated businessman, worker and family man.

His funeral service turned into a free lesson for all mourners, and those who had ears to listen went back to their respective homes more enlightened. Motivational speaker, entrepreneur and radio talk show personality Ms Humbelani Netshandama called on all mourners to use their time profitably while they are still alive. She said the much-dreaded death came as a result of many people’s deviating from their set manual, which is the Bible.

 The deceased’s eldest son, Edzisani, said his father’s death had left a big void in the family. “He was everything to us and he was our main source of inspiration,” he said. He added that Mr Netshamavhu was a caring father who, despite being illiterate, made sure that his children and the family never wanted for anything. “He made sure that we were properly looked after and educated,” he said.

He said to show that Netshamavhu was a man with vision not to see people suffer, he established his construction company, Sebastian Construction Company, which employed more than 30 local people. He said they will continue with the company as a way of paying tribute to his father. Edzisani assured all workers who are employed in the company that their jobs are secure and they should not panic. “We will keep all the employees as our father would have loved us to do; his death does not mean the end of their jobs,” he said.