Pienaar and his brother, Nico, 47, went hiking in the Limpopo reserve on October 15. The trip would only take two days, but the brothers were separated on their way to Devil’s Knuckles. A search company was deployed after family members couldn’t access them on their cell phones.
No funeral arrangements are known for Devereaux Pienaar, 53, an engineer from Pretoria who died on a hike in the Wolkberg Wilderness Reserve.
A resident of the area found Nico last Monday at a dam in the area. He was severely debilitated, but joined the search party after medical treatment.
His brother’s body was found in an inhospitable area in the reserve on Saturday morning.
Devereaux’s daughter, Clarissa, wrote on Facebook that her father was an incredibly kind and loving man and that she “had the privilege of calling him Daddy”.
Tamatha Jane Urquhart also wrote that Devereaux had an infectious life and adventure loop. “He was loved by all who knew him. He was always cheerful and welcoming and truly lived.
“His death shattered us, but we cherish every moment we spent with him and the beautiful memories he leaves behind.”
Pule Shayi, mayor of the Mopani District Municipality, thanked the dozens of people involved in the search for the brothers. “We especially want to thank the community of Haenertsburg for their support, and for opening their hearts and homes and providing food, logistical support and other assistance to the family and rescue teams during the operation,” Shayi said.
“There were several people involved in the search-and-rescue operation, too many to mention. We want to express our utmost gratitude to every dear person involved. ”
Shayi also expressed the municipality’s sympathy with the family. “It is truly sad that an excursion to explore our beautiful surroundings has ended in this tragic loss.”
