Steve Loock, a Pretoria man famous for standing at intersections with his 'Hey Smile' sign, was laid to rest in Marble Hall on September 25. Loock passed away on June 21, and his family had been struggling to cover the costs of his funeral. Maroela Media reported earlier this month that Loock's body had been in a mortuary since his death while his family tried to raise enough money for a funeral.
After the report, Avbob, a mutual society, reached out to Maroela Media to get in touch with Loock's family and offered to help with the funeral costs. Avbob ultimately covered the full funeral costs of around R18,000, including a coffin, and handled the funeral arrangements on behalf of the family. Pastor Dawie Pieterse, a family friend, officiated the service.
Deon Bergh, Loock's nephew, expressed gratitude for the help received from Avbob and the public. Some family members were able to attend the funeral, while others lived too far away to make the trip. The approximately R7,400 donated by the public helped cover costs such as the pastor, transportation, and food for the family.
Bergh said it was nice to have the family together again after such a long time. He thanked Avbob for their support throughout the process. Avbob's Secunda branch had arranged for Loock's body to be collected from the Matlala hospital, and his sister, Annemarie Maritz, was assisted with the identification process, which happened to be on her birthday.
According to Avbob, their community-focused approach and the family's circumstances moved them to intervene. The company described it as an opportunity to give Steve a "heavenly smile" back. Mokgadi Tshivule, Avbob Groblersdal branch manager, said it was a privilege for the team to walk alongside the family during this difficult time.
Tjokkie Roets, Avbob Secunda branch manager, initially reached out to the family and worked with Tshivule's team on the arrangements. Roets said it was a great privilege to support the family and share in their memories of Steve. Loock, a former journalist and court reporter, had stood at Pretoria intersections with his sign for years, encouraging motorists to smile despite life's challenges.
Although Loock is now laid to rest, his family hopes to erect a memorial board in Pretoria to keep his 'Hey Smile' legacy alive. They may try to raise funds for this in the future. Loock's family was finally able to say goodbye with a smile and dignity. Those who wish to contribute can do so by transferring funds to Deon's business account: MzansiNear, Capitec, 2589227090, referencing "HEY SMILE".
Key points
- Avbob covered the full funeral costs of around R18,000 for Steve Loock.
- The public donated approximately R7,400 to support Loock's funeral.
- Loock's family hopes to erect a memorial board in Pretoria to keep his 'Hey Smile' legacy alive.
