(Rosemary & Rod Draper
with their sons, Martin, Robin & Peter)
Rod (Roderick) John Draper, a popular and well-respected
long-term supporter of the performing arts, passed away peacefully in Durban on
November 21.
Born in England, he
was educated at the Downs Preparatory School and Taunton School, later at the
University of Natal, Durban. He was articled to a Durban firm of chartered Accountants
and qualified in 1956, then worked for Lever Bros in Durban. He became a naturalised
South African citizen in 1964.
He joined the
family paint manufacturing concern Elvolac Paints Pty Ltd and became joint
Managing Director. The business was sold to AECI Paints Pty Limited after which
he was appointed joint Managing Director of the combined operation in Natal for
three years and a Director on the holding company Board.
He was much involved
in the property and insurance industries and served on numerous municipal and
transport bodies as well as the Durban Chamber of Commerce with which he
retained strong links until his death.
He leaves his wife Rosemary
and their three sons Martin, Robin and Peter.
Rod and Rosemary were season ticket holders of the KZN
Philharmonic and sponsored shows to the Witness Hilton Arts Festival.
“He was always game to go to support anything, be it
Catalina, The Rhumbelows, The Elizabeth Sneddon - whatever!” says close friend,
Lindi Drummond. “He was a pleasure to have around the theatre world and was a
great friend to us!”
“I have known Rod and Rosemary since 1970 or so when we were
members of The Kloof Amateur Dramatic Society (KADS),” says casting director
Peter Gardner. “He was an open and honest man –said it like he meant it and
felt it. He was always a great supporter of the dramatic arts. He will be
sorely missed.”
A Celebration Wake will take place on Monday (December 1) at
16h30. For details, contact Rosemary on 031 201 0926. In lieu of flowers,
donations to Highway Hospice would be appreciated.
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