OUDTSHOORN NEWS - Last week George High School's flag flew at half-mast as a sign of respect for 18-year old Axzel van Wyk, a Grade 12 pupil who passed away on Tuesday 2 June after taking his own life.
Sergeant Riëtte Esterhuyse, George Police communication officer, confirmed that an 18-year-old male passed away in the George Hospital from an alleged overdose of medication on Tuesday 2 June. An inquest docket for investigation has been opened. No foul play is suspected.
Morton van Rooyen, headmaster of George High School, described Axzel as a quiet, intelligent and diligent individual who was talented and very arty but somewhat private. "His flair for the arts was respected by his fellow drama and design pupils. His untimely departure has left a void that will be truly missed by all."
"It is difficult to explain my feelings as I know he was deeply troubled. We are holding on to privileged, joyous times.
He wasn't interested in being an actor but yearned to make animated movies that would portray a deep message. He was a script writer," said Axzel's mother, Rochelle.
Axzel's father, Clifford, said Axzel's love for arts was on a philosophical level. "He showed me many scripts he started as well as drawings. He also intended to study graphic design. We were also proud of his karate achievements."
Arjanah, Axzel's sister, said she will miss his rapping talent. "Axzel formed a group with his two dear and gifted friends, Jamie and Milla, which they called the 'JAM group' using the first letters of each of their names. It was an honour to watch and listen to the cleverly crafted words."
Nicolson, Axzel's younger brother, said they were very close and Axzel will always be in his heart and mind. "You made me laugh, your stories will live on forever not only for me but for all of us who had the pleasure of knowing you."
The funeral will start at 11:00 at Farm 5 Volmoed in the Oudtshoorn District, followed by a service at 12:00 at the Uniting Reformed Church, Oudtshoorn.
Verlede jaar het Tanita da Silva, Axzel van Wyk se onderwyseres, terloops vir hom gevra of hy nie vir die Jipgedigte-kompetisie wil inskryf nie. Hier is sy gedig:
GEHEIM
Ons elkeen het 'n geheim, want waarhede bring pyn
Jou lewe vou soms wawyd oop, al skuil jy agter 'n gordyn
Jy is onsigbaar al is jou "vriende" daar
Alhoewel jy soms nie wil, bly jy liewer stil.
Laat ek dit beter explain, hou jou beter klein
Sit daai vinger op die lip, hou jou mond gezip.
ARTICLE: MYRON RABINOWITZ, GEORGE HERALD - JOURNALIST.
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