By Staff reporter
RUNDU, August 12 – Lorette van Zyl, a well-known principal of Rundu Afrikaans Private School and a former Kavango netball regional coach, passed away on Wednesday evening at a local hospital in Rundu, located in the Kavango East region.
Affectionately known as Mrs. van Zyl, she was a respected figure in the education and sports community. She had also served as a teacher at Noordgrens Secondary School in the 1990s, where she was admired for her kindness and passion for sports. Her involvement in netball coaching, both at the school level and as a regional coach, left a lasting impact on the sporting landscape of the region.
Born in Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa, Lorette and her husband Jakobus van Zyl moved to Namibia in 1991. Jakobus, a retired instructor of Rundu Vocational Training Centre and a renowned boxing coach, played a significant role in developing local boxing talent. Lorette’s dedication to teaching and sports remained steadfast, even after her husband’s retirement.
After deciding to permanently settle in Rundu upon her husband’s retirement, Lorette continued her teaching career until her untimely passing. At 55 years old, she leaves behind her husband, though they did not have biological children.
Lorette’s sudden passing has left a void in the community, where she was widely respected for her contributions to education and sports. Her funeral arrangements will be announced once her family arrives from South Africa.
Her impact on students, athletes, and the Rundu community will be remembered as a testament to her dedication and love for teaching and sports. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire those who knew her.- Namibia Daily News.
