Suzette van Heerden — 20 May 2024

Dear Rodney, you were the epitome of a gentleman, a kind soul, and an amazing person. You left an indelible mark on the lives of everyone you touched. Your kindness, compassion, and generosity of spirit made you a beloved friend and a true legend in the Judo community. A Judo legend par excellence, a wondering encyclopaedia, philosopher, trivia master. I was always amazed to learn yet another fact about judo, judo etiquette, history, rules, or techniques from you. You seem to always have more for anyone who is interest, readily at hand, dating back to day dot. Such a brilliant mind! Your dedication to the sport was unwavering. You were always the first to arrive and the last to leave. You were a shining example of excellence, always striving to improve, whilst never hesitating to lend a helping hand. You excelled in every aspect of life. Your humility and warmth only added to your greatness, making you a true hero to many in Victoria, Australia as well as Globally.Your legacy will continue to inspire and motivate us, and your memory will live on in our hearts and minds forever. Rest in peace, my dear friend, until we meet again.