MOSSEL BAY NEWS - There is a Fishermen's Kit Gift Box function at 13:00 on 9 July at the D'Almeida Civic Centre in Mossel Street.
The function is to collect donations for children aged two to 14 years. Knitted gloves, caps and beanies, scarves, toiletries for girls and boys and sweets are welcome.
No cash donations will be accepted.
To contribute or to find out more, contact Renay (064 167 8778 or renayjren@gmail.com).
The Fishermen’s Kit Gift Box is in memory of Deon Olkers. He was a shore skipper for years and dealt daily with fishermen.
"The gifts collected will be for fishermen’s children, as a token of Deon's love for them. He had a soft spot for children," a spokesperson for the project said.
Deon passed away on 10 July 2021.
The function on 9 July 2022 takes the form of the official launch of the Fisherman's Kit Gift Box project. A function like this will happen every year in honour of Deon.
"His calm, respectful nature endeared him to everyone he encountered daily. His personality attracted people to open up to him. He made everyone feel special and not left behind.
"He always motivated you to achieve your dreams and goals in life. He was a good life partner and good father to his son Dean and many others who acknowledge him as a father and dear friend."
Deon's fishing interests came from his late father, Anthony Olkers, who was a chief in the industry himself. Deon's personal experience of having a father at sea made him understand how children miss their fathers when they are at sea.
Deon was the son of Merlyn and Anthony Olkers.
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