PROFESSOR Mochichi Samuel Mokgokong's life was celebrated by his colleagues in Tshwane on Tuesday, 30 January.
Mokgokong (71) died on Wednesday, 24 January at Life Groenkloof Hospital in Tshwane. He suffered from cancer.
Health Minister Dr Joe Phaahla said: "We are here to say to you that your son, husband, father and uncle has done a lot for the people of this country. And for that, we say thank you. Professor Mokgokong had full support.
"Indeed, we feel the sense of loss. We feel pain because he was one of us, as colleagues and friends. Let's accept that the Lord has taken what the Lord has given and let's release him to his maker, join his ancestors and let him rest in peace."
Mokgokong is remembered for being part of the surgical team that separated conjoined twins, Mpho and Mphonyana Mathibela, at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital on 7 December 1986.
ANC treasurer-general Dr Gwen Ramokgopa said: "A big tree has fallen. The family, community, especially the medical fraternity, please receive our heartfelt condolences in this difficult hour of grief. Let's remember that the Lord will comfort us."
Dr Anna Mokgokong, a family representative and chancellor of North West University, said: "His dedication to the profession was unquestionable. Our educational system should cater to all and everyone and be able to fulfil their true ambition and enjoy access to quality professional rendered affordable healthcare."
Representing former Neurosurgery Registrars and Sefako Makgatho University, Professor Pat Lekgwara said Mokgokong expected the best. "He taught me a lot. He was a father to me," he said.
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Professor Shisana Baloyi, who represented the University of Limpopo, said: "Professor Mokgokong was a brilliant leader, a great academic, a true African and true son of the soil. He represents the epitome of black excellence."
Professor Nathaniel Mofolo, who represented the dean of Sefako Makgatho University, said: "Professor Mokgokong was a giant among giants. We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear colleague. A man who left footprint whenever he walked.
Representing the department of neurosurgery, Professor Llewellyn Padayachy said: "It was fortunate to know Professor Mokgokong. I also knew him on a personal basis. The reason I always called him Professor Mokgokong is the type of human being he was and his dignity."
Professor Simon Nemutandani, president of the Association of Medical Councils of Africa and Health Professions Council of South Africa, said Mokgokong's death is a great loss to Africa.
The family will remember Mokgokong on Wednesday, 31 January at St Peter's Church.
The funeral will be on Thursday, 1 February at Moretela Church (NG Kerk) and he will be laid to rest at Pretoria East Cemetery.
