Farewell to a formidable woman

An icon and inspiration. A formidable journalist, brilliant in her work and a mentor to many. A beautiful soul. A true 'Brave Warrior'. A person who showed everyone what it means to care deeply and humanely. Someone who lived for her family.

These are just a few of the ways hundreds of Namibians reacted to the death of Ronelle Rademeyer, Republikein’s former news editor, who died on Monday evening in Windhoek. The outpouring of messages made it clear that, besides being a deeply respected and fearless journalist, it was her empathy, compassion and humanity that left a lasting impression on so many.

“You were a leader to us, always an inspiration, a great 'wingman', our compass, the voice of reason, a daredevil within limits, a mentor, the one you call for advice, but above all, a very special friend who leaves a massive void in our lives," said Elizma Theron, chairperson of the Windhoek Woordfees, of which Rademeyer was a co-founder.

In her capacity as manager of Network Namibia, Theron said the organisation had the greatest respect for the role Rademeyer played in promoting Afrikaans in Namibia in her role as news editor of Republikein and as chairperson of the Windhoek Woordfees, for which she was recently honoured.

"She was a key figure in any discussions about our language and someone whose opinion was highly regarded."

Deeply respected, admired

Deon Steyn, on behalf of the Afrikaans Wikipedia, expressed their deepest condolences, while the Editors' Forum of Namibia (EFN), of which Rademeyer was an executive member and former secretary-general, described her as a journalist with heart and soul, known for her professionalism and insight, qualities that earned her deep respect from her peers and colleagues. The forum also highlighted her significant role in organising the annual EFN Journalist of the Year awards.

The Namibia Media Professionals Union (Nampu) described Rademeyer as an extraordinary journalist and news editor who not only embodied hard work, but also exuded grace, empathy and understanding.

"She was extremely professional and brought depth and insight to every story she covered. Her contributions to the journalistic industry in Namibia are immeasurable," the union said in a statement.

Nampu's acting secretary-general Jemima Beukes said Rademeyer harboured an incredible ability to make everyone feel valued and included.

"She had a soft heart and was approachable, always ready to listen or to help. Her empathy and genuine care for her colleagues made her a beloved figure in the media community."

Palpable loss

Namibian media, particularly the agricultural sector, has lost a great journalist, said Elvira Hattingh, a friend and former colleague who covered the agricultural sector alongside Rademeyer.

"I have lost my greatest mentor, our 'newspaper mom', a person who took my breath away!"

When she joined Republikein 12 years ago as a young, inexperienced journalist, it was this 'mother hen' who patiently and lovingly honed her talents, Hattingh recounted.

"Both of us are farm children, and we were able to serve the agricultural sector side by side through journalism. Ronelle was a formidable journalist who added razor-sharp intelligence and yet so much care to every story." She added that Rademeyer imbued compassion and love.

"Countless times she wiped away my tears, even when she was close to shedding her own. A large part of who I am and will still become is thanks to her. I thank God that He also lent her to me,” she said.

A true legacy

Former news editor of Republikein, Christo Retief, wrote: "Oh Ronelle, there are no words to describe how I feel about this news! You were a beautiful person in every respect. But more than that... you were a good friend, a fantastic colleague and the best braai and potjie partner". Rademeyer and Retief participated in Meatco braai competitions on behalf of Republikein several times and walked away with top honours.

Former editor of Erongo, the late Des Erasmus' wife and former colleague, Anneli Erasmus wrote from Swakopmund: "Ronelle, finally you can sail on a calm sea after the stormy waters you had to endure for so long. We mourn your loss, but we wish you painless peace. Your footprints are deeply embedded in our country and in our hearts. We will not forget".

Strong, unbreakable bonds

Francoise Steynberg, a long-time colleague and friend, recalled that when she returned from Taiwan 15 years ago, she was excited to work with the well-known and highly intelligent Rademeyer – the dame of journalism.

"She was not just my news editor, mentor, an excellent team leader and friend. We were part of the tightest bond of newspaper sisters and newshounds in the history of Republikein that nothing and no one, except death, could ever break."

"She was the chisel that shaped my humanity and journalism," said Henriette Lamprecht, news editor and friend. "We laughed a lot together, cried a lot together, shared so much, and worked incredibly hard together. I will always think: 'What would Ronelle do?'. May she always know where she is now that she made me strong."

Rademeyer is survived by her husband Lourens and their sons Wilhelm and André, her parents and her four sisters, their husbands and children.

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