Our Inspiration
Ferdinand Meischke - The Man with Huge Hands and a Big Heart
The story of Ferdinand Meischke is a remarkable tale of a man who left a lasting legacy through his philanthropic endeavors and dedication to service.
In May 1936, Ferdinand Meischke was born in Rotterdam, Netherlands, with an extraordinary height of 2.4 meters, making him truly stand head and shoulders above his peers.
At the age of 19, he embarked on a new chapter of his life, emigrating to South Africa, where he began his career in the banking industry. He found love and happiness in the arms of Inge, and together, they welcomed two beautiful daughters, Andrea and Michelle.
But Ferdinand was more than just a tall man; he was an incredible human being with a deep commitment to giving back. His mantra, "Through Service You Shall Receive Joy," exemplified his dedication to philanthropy.
By day, he worked in the commercial real estate world, but his nights and weekends were reserved for Rotary and the Lutheran Church in New Germany, Kwa-Zulu Natal. His impact was profound; he played a pivotal role in acquiring land and in the design, development, and construction of an old-age home, frail care center, and retirement village, complete with life rights for all purchasers.
Tragically, Ferdinand Meischke passed away in America in 2011, succumbing to lung cancer. However, his memory lives on in the hearts of many and is immortalized in the form of "Meischke Way," a road that winds through the old-age village.
His enduring spirit and the legacy of service he left behind have become the inspiration for the foundation that bears his name, a symbol of his huge hands that served countless others.
Ferdinand and Inge Meischke