Our beloved Vice-President, life member and true legend of club rugby passed away peacefully on 22 July 2020. A humble and modest man, Morris served as a Western Province Rugby Liaison Officer for national and international teams for more than 30 years.
Typical of his character, Morris retained strong bonds with most players and coaches who had visited our shores and was invited to the 2018 British and Irish Lions 50-year reunion. In recognition of his contribution to WP Rugby, Morris received rare and coveted awards from the union in 2014 and 2018 and is still proudly mentioned in the corridors of the union’s offices.
Morris will be sorely missed for his mentorship role he played on the Executive Committee, in respect of his experience, leadership and advice. It is with much sadness that we bid farewell to a passionate and dedicated man who contributed so greatly to our club and the game we all cherish.
In memory of Morris, the committee room has been renamed The Morris Silke Room.
Rest well, my friend.
Dave Kagan – President
Tributes received from players and members:
“We salute the passing of a true legend who never missed a training session or game day. He will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by the Committee and members at Hammies for his love, loyalty and passion for the Club and rugby in general.” Elspeth Moore
“Uncle Morris, a legend that loved the game of rugby. A gentleman that always knew every Hammies player’s name and would always greet.” Gareth Rowe
“n’ Puik ambassadeur vir Suid-Afrikaanse rugby wat deur die dekades baie respek verdien het en met geen politieke agenda of eie gewin die spel rugby gedien het.” Philippie du Toit
“Rest in peace Oom! True Club man for sure!” Earl Cassidy Lewis
“Very sad. A true Club gentleman, always present, always willing to engage and tell stories.” Marius Cornelissen
“RIP Mr Silke, a true gentleman of the game.” Reuben Riffel
“Sag rus Oom Morris, jy laat ‘n groot leemte.” Alshaun Bock
“Rest in peace – True Hammies boy!” Tian Fick