We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Jan Boland Coetzee this morning (12 September 2025) after a short illness.
Statement from the Coetzee family
It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Jan Boland Coetzee (80). Our father died early this morning at his Stellenbosch home, after a brief illness. Although Jan’s health had been under pressure over the last few years, he demonstrated his characteristic determination right until the end.
Jan, a West Coast native, was a pioneer: as a rugby player, for Maties, WP and the Springboks, but especially as a farmer and winemaker. First at Kanonkop in Stellenbosch, after which he moved to Vriesenhof, a farm we called home for many years. He was instrumental in establishing Chardonnay and Pinot Noir varieties in South Africa. Jan was equally passionate about the work of the Landelike Stigting, which aims to better support agricultural workers. In 2019, he was honoured by his alma mater, Stellenbosch University, with an honorary doctorate – causing endless banter between him and his friends.
He was a man of few words, but his unique outlook and unwavering nature made his disposition clear. Jan was always unpretentious, incredibly honest, and loved a good story and joking around. We will miss him – always in shorts, barefoot or with a pair of vellies and his trademark pulled-up long rugby socks.
We are grateful to everyone who was so good to him, especially over the last few weeks. His wide and diverse circle of friends is like family – lifelong friendships that lasted right until the end. Our most sincere thanks also go to the excellent, caring and professional team of doctors and carers who made sure he was comfortable day and night.
Service arrangements will be announced later.
The Coetzee family