My Grandad

Joseph Stephanus Frans Scheepers

By Nikita Carney

Joseph Stephanus Frans Scheepers is my Grandad on my mothers side. He lived a vibrant life and his values and personality have left a lasting impact on my family.

Joseph was born on the 24th April 1956 in Mafeking, South Africa. He went to school at Zwaanswyk with his brother and sister. They had to relocate in March 1962 due to his dad's ill health and shortly after that his (Joseph’s) mother got killed in a motorcar. He really enjoyed school and making the school a nice environment. At the age of 11, year 5 he started suffering from GRD/Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. He received a prize at school but used it to buy a school uniform. He didn't receive any Training or any life skills in High school. In Year 8 age 14 to Year 10 age 16 he decided to leave school and started working to support and take care of himself in1974. He went to the Military in Grahamstown, where he Taught himself life skills and discipline.

My Grandad met my Grandma, Petro Scheepers in 1976 and got married on January 20th 1970. My Grandma and Grandad have been married for about 46 years. They had 6 children together, including my Mother. Their names are: Anton, Catherine (Cathy), Johan, Elizabeth, Frederick and Joeline (my mum).

Unfortunately, my uncle Anton was on a bike ride and got hit by a car. He passed away on 21 October 2021. Not so long after that My Grandma Petro Scheepers wasn't feeling well for about 6 years and she started not really talking. Grandma did not sound very well and was quite short and skinny, looking like she hadn't eaten in days. When my Grandma started becoming weak and not feeling well my Grandad did everything in his power to help. He did all he could till her last breath.

My Grandad will always be remembered as a generous, kind person. He helps his friends and does anything for them. When one of his friend’s brother-in0law’s had Cancer (he still does), he drove all the way, picked the brother-in -law up from his house and brought him to the hospital. He has also given a stranger some money because he knew that the person couldn't afford anything. Grandad gives more than he receives because that's the kind of person he is. All the little good things he has done and positive vibes has had shared have changed and effected both his life and the lives of others. He will not just be remembered by all the things he has done but as Grandad, a friend and a Father.