
Dave Stewart Obituary, Dave Stewart has passed away unexpectedly
- by Alex Danvers
Dave Stewart Obituary, Death – Dave Stewart, a former Springbok and national selector, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 87. Mark Alexander, the President of SA Rugby, paid tribute to Dave Stewart after learning of his passing. Stewart played his provincial rugby in the colors of Western Province and South Western Districts. He appeared in 11 Tests between the years 1960 and 1965, including the unbeaten Grand Slam-winning side of 1960/61, and he was a member of the first Junior Springbok tour to Argentina in 1959. Stewart played flyhalf, fullback, and center for the Springboks. After retiring from playing, Stewart went on to become a significant figure in the game of rugby in South Africa. He served as a selector for the Springboks, a coach, and later as the Honorary Life President of his cherished Villager Rugby Club. Stewart also established the first sevens tournament in South Africa.
According to Alexander, “Dave touched the lives of many South Africans through rugby and sport in general, and he had a significant impact on the game here in our country.” “The Springbok tour squad of 1960/61 was one of the best sides to leave our shores. They beat the four Home Unions before drawing 0-0 with France, and Dave demonstrated his value and versatility to the side by playing in different positions in a few of those Tests. This tour squad was one of the best sides to leave our shores. “He was also the last surviving member of the famed Wynberg Four, which consisted of Doug Hopwood, Lionel Wilson, and Doug Holton. In 1960, the Wynberg Four played together for their school and afterwards for the South African national team.
“But his commitment to rugby went beyond his playing days, as Dave plowed back into the game he loved so much by working as a coach, selector, and administrator after he finished his playing career. His enthusiasm for athletics led to the founding of the very first Sportsman’s Warehouse more than three decades ago. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Joy, and their four children, Caroline, John, Suzie, and Ashley, as well as his grandchildren, other relatives and friends who were close to him. During this time of loss, I pray that the lovely memories you have of Dave bring you some measure of comfort.
Dave Stewart Obituary, Death – Dave Stewart, a former Springbok and national selector, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 87. Mark Alexander, the President of SA Rugby, paid tribute to Dave Stewart after learning of his passing. Stewart played his provincial rugby in the colors of Western Province and South Western Districts. He…