Although born in Cape Town , Francois spent most of his later years in Johannesburg . He started his working career in the motor industry and after a few years at Toyota South Africa , his flair for sales and marketing gained momentum . He studied marketing and obtained a diploma in business management . After a courtship of five years Francois married Carol , and shortly thereafter joined the Thermo King sales team of GEA Africa in 2018 , working closely with Johann Coetzee . In 2014 he was appointed as the head of cooling sales in the transport refrigeration division .

As a salesman , his passion and commitment to the products he sold instilled confidence in and gained business from many clients . With his outgoing personality and focus on aftersales service , Francois developed strong relationships with his clients , many of whom became close friends . On the numerous occasions that I was able to travel with Francois and be in his company with clients , I was able to witness the strong following he had with many of the role players in the refrigerated transport industry in South Africa and Namibia . His broad smile and laughter also brought hearty light to those in his company .

In 2018 , Francois left GEA Africa and acquired the agency for Dhollandia Taillifts and started DH Lifts , with branches in the major centres . In 2019 the Belgian-owned company bought a major share in the business of Francois and DH Lifts became

the first partnership in the international organisation of Dhollandia .

Francois will long be remembered for his never-failing drive and enthusiasm . He worked hard and enjoyed having fun and a good party .

Our heartfelt sympathy goes to his wife Carol , their nine-year-old daughter , Logan , his sister Cecile Joubert and family . May they find comfort in knowing that Francois will fondly be remembered by a wide network of family , clients and friends . CLA

It is always sad when

a young friend , who

is in the prime of

his life , passes way

unexpectedly .

Photo supplied by family