Remembering the unequalled legacy of Eusebius McKaiser

By Unarine Mugogovhali

 

Loved ones and members of the Rhodes University community gathered at the 1820 Settler's Monument in Makhanda on 10 June 2023 to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of one of the University’s most prominent alumni Eusebius McKaiser.

As the recipient of the prestigious Distinguished Alumni Award, Eusebius was an exemplary alumnus of Rhodes University. He died unexpectedly on 30 May 2023 at age 44, leaving behind an unmatched legacy of community upliftment, compassion, creativity, dedication, and kindness. 

Rhodes University's Chair of Council, Judge Gerald Bloem, spoke on behalf of the University, the Vice-Chancellor, Council and the broader University community. 

Said Judge Bloem: "I feel honoured to stand here and speak about such an outstanding alumnus of Rhodes University. Eusebius epitomised the Rhodes University values. He was an embodiment of the University's spirit – robust, engaging and with a well-cultivated sense of intersectionality. He stood for social justice and equality. His stance against racism was unequivocal and unmistakable."

Eusebius joined Rhodes University in 1997 to study for a Bachelor of Arts degree in Law and Philosophy. True to his character, he went on to do his Honours and Master's in Philosophy, which he obtained with distinction. 

"No language will sufficiently describe the enduring sequel of despair, sadness and even rage that our community is going through. Disbelief continues to alternate with denial in many of us as the intrusion of ill-timed death and the resultant reality of the irreplaceable loss settles with every passing moment,” said Judge Bloem. "We share this loss with innumerable others in society locally, nationally and internationally." 

Fellow debate enthusiast Scott recalled meeting Eusebius at Rhodes University in 1998. “I will miss you so much. The only solace, if there is any solace at all at this point is that you brought the most amazing writing into our lives. We’re going to be able to read your words, again and again, reflect on them, think about what they mean for us, and what they mean for our country,” Scott stated.

A mentee of Eusebius, broadcaster and presenter, Oliver Dickson, spoke about his compassion and particular activism to alleviate period poverty, which Eusebius raised awareness about through the MINA Menstrual Cup Foundation. “Eusebius was always available for those he cared for and the things he cared for,” Oliver said.

‘Juffrou Juliet’, one of Eusebius' teachers from St Mary's Primary School, bravely got on stage, despite never having spoken publicly before – to share beautiful memories of 'young' Eusebius. “He was a quiet, reserved boy with a bright intelligent mind, and he did us so proud in so many ways,” she stated. 

Eusebius' friend Gareth from Graham College, which he attended from 1992, reminisced about their friendship, which spanned over 30 years. At high school, Gareth recalled Eusebius convincing him to join debate teams and Toastmasters, which remained an interest in Eusebius' life until the end. Gareth said, “I stand a little taller today because of you. I will forever treasure you, my famous friend. The void you have left behind will be difficult and near impossible to fill.”

Kate, another friend Eusebius met at Rhodes University, mentioned Eusebius' book-in-progress on novelist Kabello Sello Duiker and shared a Duiker poem about the 1994 elections.

Sister Miriam, on behalf of the Makhanda community, said: “Although he stayed in Gauteng, he always remained a part of the Grahamstown community. He was there all the time, every time.”

Manager of Rhodes University's Student Bureau, Desiree Wicks, took the podium to talk about her friendship with Eusebius, which had started during his time at the University. She recounted all the ways he had helped students, the University and Makhanda over the years. “May all the happy memories ease our pain. We know Eusebius and those happy memories will live in our hearts forever,” she said.

Nduduzo, Eusebius' partner of almost 10 years, opened his tribute by sharing words from Dr Seuss’ Oh, the Places You'll Go!, which was a favourite they shared.

In closing, a eulogy fitting of Eusebius’ illuminating legacy was read out by Mandy: "You were an unmatched soul. You elevated thought and discussion at a global level, yet still had the time and humility to engage the average Joe. You will be sorely missed and forever immortalised. We love you."

Eusebius is survived by his father Donny Boy McKaiser, step-mother Valencia, siblings Geniva Fiks, Marilyn Mohammed and Aiden Stevens, his partner Nduduzo and his cousins, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and friends.

His funeral proceedings can be viewed at the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0G7b3q4O5lk