Chris Rousseau, vice-chairman of the Constantia Ratepayers’ and Residents’ Association (CRRA) died last week.
He served on the executive committee of the CRRA for 10 years, including as land-use chairman for seven years.
Last year, the City of Cape Town recognised him for his contribution to the community when he was honoured with a Community Service Award.
John Hesom, manager of the CRRA, said that the organisation would greatly miss his dedication, enthusiasm, knowledge and hard work as well as his cheerful disposition.
Mr Rousseau was a structural engineer who served the Constantia community while also running his own consulting practice.
Mr Hesom said Mr Rousseau had had a passion for the history of Constantia, particularly that of the dispossessed families.
“For example, through a series of interviews with former and current residents, he compiled a detailed map of where families lived in the Strawberry Lane area (including anecdotes of certain characters) before forced removals and development,” said Mr Hesom.
Mr Rousseau also led the CRRA team on the development of a local area spatial development framework for Constantia which is still a work in pro-
gress and he until recently provided input despite his ailing health.
He loved walking up the mountain with his two dogs, early enough to see the sunrise over the mountains of the Helder-
berg.