When Ofer Lapid from Gearhouse and Duncan Riley of DWR Distribution met for dinner at the well-known Troyville Hotel on Wednesday, 11 March, business and equipment were the last things on their minds. Their hearts were with Gerda Kruger — a true legend in South Africa’s live events industry — who had lost her beloved husband just days earlier.
Philip, a respected part of the same industry, passed away unexpectedly on 6 March, leaving behind not only a partner, but a lifetime of shared passion, resilience, and love.
In that moment, a simple but powerful idea took shape: to stand by Gerda in the way she has stood by so many others. A BackaBuddy campaign was created — not only to help ease the burden of unexpected medical expenses, but to honour a woman who has given so much of herself to this industry and its people. The SOS Charity Fund, part of DWR Distribution, will match every rand raised during the campaign.
Gerda’s Story
Gerda’s love for lighting began while she was still at school — a spark that would grow into a lifelong calling. From her early days as a lighting stage electrics technician at the Performing Arts Council of the Transvaal, to her work at the State Theatre, she built a career defined by passion, creativity, and dedication.
But Gerda has always been more than her craft. She is a mentor, a guide, and a steady presence. So many in the industry took their first steps with her support — whether through lighting design, hands-on training, or simply her willingness to share knowledge and uplift others.
Together, Gerda and Philip stood for something greater. During the apartheid years, they were part of the liberal movement, believing in a better, more just future. They faced life side by side — always together, always strong.
Gerda fought cancer and won. But like so many in the live events industry, the Covid-19 pandemic brought immense challenges. Through it all, Philip did whatever was needed — working in a call centre and beyond — to keep them going, while Gerda continued to create, adapt, and persevere, even exploring new ventures like pet care products before finding her way back to the industry she loves.
Their love was unmistakable. They were inseparable — partners in every sense of the word.
And now, in the quiet space left behind, the industry that Gerda helped build and nurture wants to stand beside her.
How You Can Help
If Gerda has ever touched your life, guided your path, or inspired your journey — this is a moment to give back.
No contribution is too small. Every donation is a gesture of gratitude, a show of support, and a reminder that she is not alone.
Please consider supporting the BackaBuddy campaign and sharing it with others. Together, we can help ease the burden and surround Gerda with the same care and generosity she has shown to so many.
To support Gerda visit: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/loving-gerda-kruger.