SCORES of people came to pay their last respects to taxi boss Menzi Mcunu and support his family today, from fellow taxi owners to drivers, public figures and community members.
Close friend Phil Nzima explained why he’d disappeared at the memorial service. “We promised we’d speak at each other’s funerals and that’s why I waited for his body to be brought home. He did the honour of speaking about me on his 60th birthday as if he knew he’d be leaving me behind. We’ve lost an honourable man.”
His daughter Thandeka Mcunu “thando indlovukazi kababa” said: “Today I woke up and knocked on your bedroom door and you didn’t say ‘come in’. You weren’t in bed, you were not checking yourself out in the mirror or talking to your employees. My superhero is gone, who’s going tp come rescue me now? I wish you’d prepared me that as of 20th of September 2020, I must learn to live without you.”
Khanyi Mbau said today was a very difficult day and words were failing her. “Through my physical strength was how I could show my dad how much I loved him this past week, by making sure everything runs smooth. Being known in Soweto as Menzi’s child was a big deal. He used to say he doesn’t know why God didn’t make me a boy because I am hard-headed and handle things. He was my role model.” Khanyi said for interviews she’d dress well, keep her head up and speak firmly, because that’s what her dad taught her.
“He’d say he has a lot of kids and not only his flesh. He never approved of any man we brought home because he was probably looking for a man of his calibre. I didn’t want to dress up today, but I remembered how annoyed you’d be if we walked in dressed otherwise. When we meet again, I hope you’ll be waiting and smiling.
His eldest son Lungile said: “I lost my best friend. You buried me alive, dad. My dad was the school of excellence and taught many. Dad, prepare a table for us in heaven as you prepared for us on this earth.”
Lasizwe said he never had it smooth with his dad but they had the usual ups and downs. “I have no parent left. Baba, thank you for everything you’ve taught me. I’ve learnt to be responsible through you. When I announced my sexuality, people became judgmental, but he took me out for lunch and asked if he’d be sending out or getting cows for my lobola.
“You promised never to let anyone hurt me. You weren’t shy to show off your love for me. Thank you for the gift of love, for your generous spirit and putting others before you. Now I’m left with a lonely heart,” said Lasizwe.
Mcunu was laid to rest at Nasrec Cemetery.
