Fisherman reels in a 100 years of good health

Pictured in front with George Clarence are his grandchildren, Irma Clarence and Alexis Clarence-Buys. At the back are Byron Clarence, Greta Nangammbi, Laura Clarence-Spear, Luther Adams, Leah Adams, Louise Clarence and Matthew Clarence.

Still in shipshape, retired fisherman George Frank Clarence turned 100 this year and celebrated his milestone with his family, at his son Paul’s house in Constantia recently.

The centurion, who lives with his two daughters Priscilla and Margaret in Heathfield, turned a 100 on March 21.

Being as fit as a fiddle, Mr Clarence was fortunate to have never gone under the knife. “However, he suffered a mild stroke about 12 years ago, and he is also hard of hearing,” said his daughter Priscilla Clarence Westman.

Her dad was born in Kalk Bay and that’s where he also met the love of his life, his late wife Dorothy. “They were both very fond of mountaineering and they had a very loving and happy relationship. They loved taking trips on the train to the beach and going camping with the family. They also loved working together in their home,” said Ms Westman.

Mr Clarence’s wife died on October 11 1992, but he never remarried, said Ms Westman.

Great grandchildren surround George Clarence. Pictured, at the back is Aurora Clarence, on the left Gianna Nangammbi, on the right Gudani-George Nangammbi, and on Mr Clarence’s lap is Abraham Buys. Front, left is Alexander Buys and on the right, is Willow Clarence.

Four children were born in their marriage and they are Priscilla, Paul, Margaret and the late George Clarence (junior).

Mr Clarence was a handline fisherman and was a very strict father who taught his children to “always be honest and respectful”.

However, he had a great sense of humour and “always cracked a joke, no matter how lame it is,” said Ms Westman.

On his day off from work he used to love watching movies at the cinema and rugby.

Mr Clarence is still in good health and while his nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren warm his heart, he would sometimes suffer “a slight cough or sneeze but nothing major,” said Ms Westman.

“To this day, he begins and ends every day going down on his knees and he always reminds us to do the same,” said Ms Westman.

His son Paul said his dad is always concerned about his family and friends. “All the good teachings our parents taught us will be passed on to our children.”