It is with great sadness that we advise members of SAIF and the Foundry Sector of the passing of Dave van Niekerk on Wednesday, 23 October 2024.
As we honour the remarkable life of Dave Van Niekerk, a man whose stature may have been modest, his courage, determination, and love for the foundry industry were truly immense.
Dave began his journey in the foundry world as a Pattern Maker apprentice at Primer Foundry in the 1960s. During this time, he also pursued and completed the National Diploma of Foundry Engineering at the Witwatersrand College for Advanced Technical Education in Johannesburg, graduating in the early 1970s. Shortly thereafter, he married Elize, and together they welcomed two wonderful children, Kevin and Audrey.
In his quest for knowledge and skill enhancement, Dave moved to Rhodesia, where he joined F Issels & Sons. Here, he gained invaluable technical experience in the operation of a general steel foundry. His thirst for learning took him to Germany from 1974 to 1976, where he honed his expertise in foundry sales.
Dave van Niekerk
Upon his return to South Africa, Dave joined Koppel Engineering, a pivotal role that allowed him to contribute significantly to the thriving foundry industry of the time. He was instrumental in introducing the Cold Box core-making process to South Africa, importing the very first Cold Box core blowing machine for the manufacture of Isocure impeller cores at Ace Patternmakers.
Recognising the potential for locally manufactured equipment tailored to South African needs, Dave, alongside Courtney Jane, founded Davcor. As the driving force behind marketing and the development of foundry equipment, he ensured their products were not only effective but also gained recognition on a global scale.
During this period, Dave remarried to Carol.
After many successful years, and following the unfortunate passing of Courtney, Davcor dissolved, leading Dave to establish DVN Marketing. With his extensive experience, he continued to serve the foundry industry, designing and overseeing the installation of efficient foundry layouts.
Dave’s dedication and contributions to the industry allowed him to become, among others, one of the youngest presidents of the South African Institute of Foundrymen (SAIF) from 1979 to 1981, and he remained actively involved for many decades. His commitment also extended to the NFTN, where he consulted and assisted foundries across South Africa on various projects, some of which are still ongoing.
Though Dave received numerous awards throughout his career, including no less than three “Colin Butler Awards” for the Best Technical Presentation by a SAIF Member (which was dissolved in 2015 and subsequently replaced by the “Lauds Technical Award” initiated by his son Kevin van Niekerk, CEO of Lauds Procurement & Projects), he remained humble, never boasting about his achievements. In 2000, Dave was awarded Honorary Membership and remained actively involved with various initiatives, projects, and events under the SAIF banner.
Tributes and condolences from former colleagues within the SAIF membership shine a light on fond memories dating back as far as 50 years ago. Dave was always a positive, constructive, and hard-working influence, serving the industry for the remainder of his life with great distinction. His private successes were cherished moments shared with family and close friends.
As we reflect on the profound impact Dave had on the foundry industry and the lives of those around him, we acknowledge the void his passing leaves. He will be sorely missed, but his legacy of unwavering commitment and expertise will continue to inspire us all.
Dave’s sudden passing following a short illness has left us all deeply shocked, but his legacy is to be seen in the many installations, machines, and systems that continue to operate, as well as the many young foundrymen who have benefitted from his wisdom.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and all his friends as we remember him and celebrate his life. May his dear soul Rest in Peace.
We extend our deepest condolences to his family, praying that they find comfort in the memories of a man who was not only a great influence in their lives but also a cherished figure in the industry. South African Institute of Foundrymen.
