(24 April 1980 – 20 May 2015)
It is with great sadness and untold regret that I write to the PBHS Old Boys Association to inform you of the passing of Bernd-Dieter Hauter, a former Town House boy who matriculated in 1998.
Bernd was an exceptional all-rounder at school, who represented various sporting codes including high level cricket and rugby teams. He was also an excellent academic student as well as a regular contributor to various activities within the Boys High environment.
He came to PBHS from Paarl in Form II and quickly established himself as a real Boys High boy.
Bernd’s love for the school was best illustrated on the night of the 2007 Rugby World Cup Final, holding aloft his print of the main school building as John Smit lifted the trophy.
Bernd epitomized the modern day gentleman. He would be considered the one example in today’s world that best demonstrates a young man who pursued and excelled in all aspects of life. He could speak four languages, qualified as a Chartered Accountant and rose to senior positions in the mining sector.
Bernd had a love and passion for a many number of things in the world not least of which was his wife, Kathleen. He also loved playing golf, cycling, travelling and Western Province rugby. In 2013 he successfully completed a half Iron Man competition in Port Elizabeth. I, however, will best remember him for driving the green on the 17th hole at Jackal Creek golf course landing the ball a couple of yards from the pin after having drove it well past 320 meters.
To say that Bernd was a selfless gentleman is an understatement. He certainly was a very colourful fellow, well remembered for his very dry, understated sense of humour and crisp words of advice.
Bernd passed away from cancer after an extended battle.
He is survived by his beautiful wife, Kathleen, loving parents Rolf and Helga and his sister Claudia.
Graeme Robert Hedding
Rissik House 1998