Rupert Langerman died in his home in Hermanus on January 8 2021, a month short of his 90th birthday. Described by Sporting Post as "a legend of the horse racing world", Rupert wrote for the Cape Times for 30 years. When given the choice at the start of his racing editing career between writing about politicians or horses, he chose the four-legged animals.

Rupert's school career overlapped that of Principal Hubert Kidd, who wrote in his final matric report that, "Rupert has a ton of potential if only he would put his mind to something."

Never one to conform to the norms of society or the expectations of others, Rupert rowed his boat through life at his own pace. He was never a man to do something for material gain. While not leading a grand life, he lived a comfortable one that he created for himself with his wife, Diana, to whom he had been married for 60 years. He was a man whose material wealth was measured in his collection of books as opposed to money.

A cynic of high wit and intelligence, Rupert's hobbies were that of his wine, dogs and books. Following his retirement in Hermanus, Rupert was able to pursue these hobbies in copious amounts, whilst enjoying the scenery of the sea and greenery of the Fernkloof nature reserve.

If he were able to comment on all the fuss being made about his death, Rupert's reply, said with a shrug of his shoulders, would be to wonder what all of the fuss was about in the first place.

Diana died a few days after him - a melancholy yet the fitting end for a couple who were inseparable. They are survived by their children: Melissa, Jolyon and Fritha; and their grandchildren, Rupert (2014O), Timothy (2016O), Tristan, Freya, Oscar and Echo.

Farewell and adieu, Rupert. 

- Rupert Langer (2014O)