Tribute for Michael John Beatty
Michael John Beatty (Class of 1955) died on May 7, 2022 suddenly and unexpectedly after successful skin surgery, in Howick, KZN at the age of 83.
Mike was born and grew up in Pretoria, attending PBHS for his high school years. Mike is survived by his wife of 60 years, Ailsa, and his three daughters: Denise, Eileen and Helen. He had six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Mike and Ailsa lived at Amberfield Retirement Village in Howick for the past 15 years, in Nylstroom prior to that, and in Parkview and Northcliff, Johannesburg prior to that. Mike began his BCom degree at UCT and completed this at Wits University, subsequently passing his board exam as a Chartered Accountant CA(SA).
Wildlife and birdwatching were Mike’s passion, and he and his family travelled extensively, visiting most of Southern Africa’s national parks.
Mike was extremely proud of and devoted to Pretoria Boys High School, and he spoke often of how thoroughly he had been shaped by and enjoyed his years there. The strength of integrity, honesty, informality and dignity that were so evident in Mike’s character aligned well with the values of the school; and Mike indicated that the combination of the effective guidance and the interest from the masters were as important in his formation as the ethics and codes of the school itself. Mike continued to value and participate in Old-Boys’ activities; his calendar indicated his intention to travel for the next Old-Boys gathering.
