Adri Vermaak Winckler

The sad news of Adri’s passing indeed casts a shadow over the place where she worked, but it also makes one recall the profound effect she had on her treasured students, her colleagues and all the friends she had in faculty. I regard Adri as one of the outstanding administrators in the Faculty of Health Science, simply for the reason that she always went the extra mile while executing her duties and this with a friendly and concerned disposition that was recognise by many that had dealings with Adri concerning their postgrad students. It was reported to me over the years by a number of postgrad student that dealings with Adri Winckler were likened to that of being “just like a mother” - not in the role of maternal dictatorship and or bossiness , but one of “caring”, as a one would expect of a mother. This characteristic of Adri’s has meant much to the many students with whom she interacted and supported, and ALL only spoke highly of her. It was clear to anyone wanting to take note, that Adri really genuinely cared about people. I often witnessed Adri giving her staff a friendly hug – this was just a natural part of her character and interactions. Upon enquiring once whether the “hugged” office staff member was leaving or going away for an extended period, the response was “No, just saying cheers”! What an unexpected tonic that was . On a more personal note Adri was always interested in her colleague’s wellbeing and how they were managing in the face of the many challenges at UCT. As sometimes happened when in conversation with Adri ranging from student issues to Pavarotti, one would drift towards more personal situations and discussions around “family situations”. Through this one would be afforded a glimpse of her own family, pictures of whom were proudly displayed in her view, which she adored and especially of her husband Walter. Although never having met Walter it was through Adri that I felt as if I had known him for some time. It always impressed me how she remembered the names of my own grandchildren even after many months of them not being mentioned in conversations. She indeed had a prodigious memory of facts, people and the passing parade. Always ready for a bit of humour and a laugh, I recall with fondness her impish and self-deprecating sense of humour. Springing to mind was the saga of her missing canine which was displayed in solidarity, by means of a wide deliberate smile, with my own, bewailing both the inequalities of the health care system, the strain on the budget and not to mention the strain of years! Upliftment, generally was the usual feeling when walking out of her office. Since retiring we kept in touch, albeit infrequently, but as a colleague and friend, I had a deep respect for Adri and shall miss her, my conversations with her and above all, her friendship. My sincere and heartfelt condolences to Walter, her sister and her family May you rest in peace Adri.