In Memoriam: Honoring the Memory of Ryder Kossatz

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missing teen memorial service Cape Town

The Disappearance of Ryder Kossatz

On August 9, 17-year-old Ryder Kossatz disappeared after being swept away by a powerful wave at Llandudno. Despite the National Sea Rescue Institute’s (NSRI) search efforts, Ryder has not been found.

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Memorial Service for Ryder Kossatz

The Wynberg Boys’ High School community will hold a memorial service on August 18 to honor Ryder’s memory. The service will be attended by Ryder’s family, close friends, and special guests, as well as the school staff and students. Parents and friends from the wider Wynberg community are welcome to attend.

Tribute to Ryder Kossatz

The school paid tribute to Ryder in an announcement that expressed deep regret over the unsuccessful rescue efforts. The school extended their condolences to Ryder’s family and friends, assuring them of their love, thoughts, and prayers.

Response from the School Community

The school community has shown unity and compassion in response to Ryder’s disappearance. Sports teams wore armbands over the weekend, and the school held an assembly to encourage students to seek support from tutors, house heads, and support staff.

The tragedy of Ryder’s disappearance has left a void in the hearts of his loved ones. However, the memorial service and support from the community serve as powerful reminders of the enduring bonds that connect us all. The strength of the community in these difficult moments is vital, and the kindness and support shown by Wynberg Boys’ High School and the wider community are invaluable in helping Ryder’s family and friends navigate this challenging time.

Chloe de Kock is a Cape Town-born journalist who chronicles the city’s evolving food culture, from township braai joints to Constantia vineyards, for the Mail & Guardian and Eat Out. When she’s not interviewing grandmothers about secret bobotie recipes or tracking the impact of drought on winemakers, you’ll find her surfing the mellow breaks at Muizenberg—wetsuit zipped, notebook tucked into her backpack in case the next story floats by.

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