There was grief, silence, and broken hearts as family, friends, and community members gathered to say their final goodbye to Marius van der Merwe a man remembered not for fear, but for courage, compassion, and an unshakeable sense of justice.
At his memorial service held at Medley House in Brakpan, on Wednesday stories of love, sacrifice, and bravery filled the room. Those closest to him described Marius as a devoted father, a loyal husband, and a man who could not turn away when others needed help.
Marius was gunned down in his driveway in a cold-blooded attack that has left his family and community reeling on 5 December. His death came just weeks after he gave explosive testimony at the Madlanga Commission in November, where he appeared as Witness D — a moment many now see as a testament to his fearlessness and his refusal to be silenced.
Through the chaplain JP Jordaan, his son Aiden spoke words expressed the deep devastation felt by a family suddenly forced to live without a father who was their protector and guide.
“My heartaches, the thought of never able to see you again, or tickle you again or hug you,h said.
“But i will hold on to the thought that I will see you again one day and you will be waiting for me.”
Friends spoke of a man affectionately known as “Vlam” — the flame — because of the fire he carried for his community. From cleaning up Plastic City to protecting animals and standing up for neighbourhood safety, Marius was always present, always willing, always fighting for what was right.
“He was our soldier,” said family friend Samantha Labuschagne. “When it came to justice, safety, or helping others, we looked up to him. We will not stand still. We will demand justice for our friend, our family member, and for the flame that burned so brightly among us.”
Marius (41) leaves behind his wife, Leanne, and four sons.
His body will be cremated.
