GEORGE NEWS - Well-known George businessman Bryan Hockly passed away on Sunday at his home at the age of 71.
Hockly was co-owner of the Old Townhouse Restaurant with his partner, Janet Loopstra, for the past 19 and a half years.
He had a chequered career that included owning several businesses, including a foundry and Pam Golding Properties in George. He was also a pilot and flying aeroplanes was the great love of his life.
Hockly served the George Golf Club for many years on the council, as captain, chairman and president and was made honorary member in 2017. Club president Jonathan Monk said Hockly was a loyal, understanding and dedicated person.
"The well-being of the club was always in his heart and he always put it first in every decision that he made. He was always willing to help with chairing annual general meetings, hosting prize-givings - whatever we needed, even when his term was finished.
"The title of honorary member is something only bestowed on 12 previous members in our 113-year history. We will miss the stories - sometimes the repeated ones as well - the beers in the bar on a Friday night, the banter on the golf course, the untied shoelaces - he only tied them when he made a par, sometimes never having to tie them - and trying not to count the bad shots. Thank you to Bryan for the guidance, leadership and loyalty he showed."
Club manager Sandra Lennox remembers, "I met Bryan when I started my career at the George Golf Club in 2001. I worked closely with him in his capacity on the George Golf Club board. I could always call on him for advice and guidance. He was not only a work colleague, but a very close friend. He will be missed by us all."
Hockly leaves behind his partner Janet, three children, two stepchildren and grandchildren.
No funeral arrangements had been finalised at the time of going to press.
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