Geoffrey Austin Haden Tarrant (1952G) | 1935 - 2020

Haden will be remembered by many of his contemporaries as a good and keen rugby player. He is survived by a son who lives in Noordhoek and a daughter in England as well as grandchildren.

A note was written by Haden's son David: 

As some of you are aware, my much-loved dad Haden Tarrant passed away in the early hours of Monday morning. The pain and sadness of losing him are tempered with the knowledge that he goes to join some wonderful people, and that towards the end of his life he was not having a lot of fun. But with this post, I mainly want to say thank you, Dad, for being such a strong pillar in the lives of Andrew, Tracey and me, and always being there for us. You never missed a regatta, or a rugby match or a school event, even getting me to Roodeplaat Dam at 6 am on a Sunday (a sacrifice I only now truly appreciate!), or staying late on a Saturday evening to get the boats back to school. You coached and mentored us, loved us unconditionally, and taught us the importance of maintaining integrity in the face of whatever life throws at you. 

Unsurprisingly, the one word everyone has used to describe you, Dad, is Gentleman. That was you throughout your life, and even in the throes of advanced dementia you never let that slip. I was so proud of how you always treated everyone at the Lodge with respect, warmth and a gentlemanly kiss of the hand (or a shake of the hand in Eric’s case!) despite not having a clue who they were each day, or often even where you were. They all loved you and regularly used that word ‘gentleman’ to describe you.

In our younger days, you were a legend amongst so many who knew you, with your great sense of humour, ready smile and laugh, and your hospitality. Friends were expected to visit the fridge first, and then come and say hi! From co-founding the St Stithians/Sandton Singers to leading a small group of carol singers around some of the old age/care homes in Joburg every year, from Chairman of the Rotary Club to Chairman of the Saints Rowing Club, at work and at play you always gave it you're all. I still remember some of the parties you guys hosted… But your priorities were always mom, us kids and your friends – they/we always came first. Thank you so much for being the truly wonderful dad/ husband/friend/gentleman that you were.

We love you, dad, and will miss you so very much