Johan was a great leader showing us the way not to fear the challenge but to use it as a chance to develop a better future for all. I want to give my deepest condolences to his family. May your soul rest in piece. Francois

A Tribute to a Great Man. "It's about the journey and the lives we can touch, the legacy we can leave, and the world we can change for the better" . Rest in Peace.

a humble man with exceptional leadership qualities... A great loss to the worlds

A message from His Royal Highness Prince Africa Zulu of Onkweni Royal House of Zulu on behalf of His Majesty King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, nephew to his Majesty King of eSwatini His Majesty expresses his deepest condolences for the loss of a great man. As we all know Dr Van Zyl worked very closely with the late His Majesty King Zwelithini in bringing about required stability and prosperity at the Toyota plant. His Majesty having suffered recent loss of both his parents fully understands the magnitude of the loss of Dr Van Zyl to his family. Let us continue with our faith and trust in God to give us strength to see through this challenging time.

Dear Johan, You always treated me as old friend with big smile & humor, and led me with wider & deeper view of thought. You will be in my mind forever. May your soul rest in peace. Toshiaki Ueshima

Our thoughts and prayers are with Dr Johan Van Zyl's family and all of Toyota during this time.

My heartfelt condolences to Dr. Van Zyl's family. May God guide you and grace you with the courage and strength during these most trying of times. So many great and beautiful tributes to a legend of a proudly South African Dr. All I can say is that there was always such an aura about Dr. Van Zyl. Everybody knew when he was around. He generated such enthusiasm, optimism and vision in his special, gentle and simple way. I will always remember Dr. Van Zyl for his beautiful sense of fairness and respect for all, irrespective of one's status. He always had the most amazing virtue of truth, integrity of thought, emotion and action. I think Dr. would prefer I use the word Ubuntu. Having the respect, love and to cherish nature amplifies how much Dr. Van Zyl thought of the Universe. As Madiba would say " it is in our hands now" hence we must honour Dr's amazing legacy. We must respect everyone and all of God's creation. We must encourage cohesion for the upliftment of our communities and for a proudly better South Africa. Dr. will be proud if we could achieve this. May your soul rest in eternal peace Dr. Johan van Zyl. Rodney Reddy TSAM.

To the Family, friends and colleagues of Dr Johan Van Zyl: From all of us at MOENCO Ethiopia, please accept our deepest condolence for this sad loss. Dr Zyl was a friend and a great supporter of our business in Ethiopia and we will all miss him dearly. Let us remember and honor him for all his great work and partnership to advance and significantly grow Toyota business across Africa for the past many years and made many friends along the way. Please let's take great pride in his service to Toyota, the continent of Africa and to humanity. May he rest in peace. Francis Agbonlahor Managing Director Inchcape Africa Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

My deepest condolences to Santi and the Van Zyl family. Dr's memorial was a true celebration of his great leadership and tremendous contribution he has made to the South African and Global Toyota. May his soul rest in peace. (Masayuki Minai from Toyota Motor Corporation)

Our deepest condolences to Santie and their family. Johan was a giant of a business leader but also a humble man who cared deeply for his family and South Africa. His phenomenal legacy will continue! RIP Lourens and Christa Botha

I never had the good fortune of meeting Dr. Van Zyl. However listening to the AIDE MEMOIRE speeches today, I realised what a great man he was. I feel inspired, and want to be more and do more. My deepest condolences to his family and friends, may his soul rest in peace.

We mourn the passing of a legend , a remarkable man. Doc Johan touched everyone around him both in business and on a personal level. His way was inspiring and he left things he touched in a better place than what he found it. May he rest softly and his legacy inspire us to be better human beings and make a difference around us! Petrus van Niekerk

My deepest condolences to Santi and the Van Zyl family. Mr van Zyl's memorial was a true celebration of his wonderful life and great leadership - it was truly eye-opening on the amazing contribution Johan has made to the South African Society. We will cherish his legacy, a true leader to the people. May his soul rest in peace - from the staff of Pangea (Formerly GST Seton)

Johan you will be sorely missed. You touched the hearts of everyone you met like a father, a teacher, a friend and much more. I will always remember the first time we met and you gave me so much of your time, honest thoughts and laughter. May you rest in peace and your legacy live on. My heartfelt condolences to Santie and family.

Rest In Peace Doctor. A true gentleman.

We have felt your passion for the South African automotive sector & we endeavor to make our contribution in your honor. T. Otake, J. Kubokawa

REST IN PEACE AND DANCE IN HEAVEN WITH MY PARENTS, YOU HAVE ALL HELPED ME COME THUS FAR IN LIFE, AND WITH YOUR CONTINUED GUIDANCE. I AM ABLE TO PUSH THROUGH ALL THAT LIFE BRINGS MY WAY. Bible verse: Matthew 28:20 - I am with you always even unto the End of the World.

It was indeed a sad day when I heard of the passing away of Dr. Van Zyl. My condolences to Dr. Van Zyl's family and the Toyota Family. He was a motivational and inspirational Leader. I will always remember my few interactions with Doctor. REST IN PEACE DOCTOR VAN ZYL.

A True visionary, we will always remember the "Doc", but more importantly strive to achieve his vision for S.A and the Automotive industry. Our prayers and love will always be with his family.

Johan, we had such good conversations about business and non-business related items. You will always be remembered. Dirk

"A Golden Heart stopped beating, hard-working hands are now at rest, The life of Dr Johan van Zyl is never lost but his influence goes on through all the lives he has ever touched, He generously shared his knowledge, his expertise and his skills whilst he exemplified brilliance, He always displayed amazing essence, spirit, integrity, selfless generosity and uncompromising belief in all the good that he has done.” Today, Automould (Pty) Ltd, Honor’s Dr Johan van Zyl, a Strategic, Innovative, Creative visionary who was not only humble but also sincere in displaying his Leadership, Enthusiasm, Commitment and Dedication to those he worked with in the automotive industry. His expertise as a Strategic thinker will forever be embraced with the unique and special role he played in all of our lives. To the Dear family of Mr Johan Van Zyl, Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your heart. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, on “behalf of the Automould Family” "I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make. Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories. We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love." ~ Leo Buscaglia

Dr van Zyl was someone whom we admired and looked up to as a business leader. He was very innovative, leading a strong workforce and constantly increasing capacity for local manufacture. Over the years getting news of his success in moving up in the Toyota group was always encouraging . It’s a great loss for South Africa, we convey our heartfelt condolences to his family and the Toyota Group. Hitap management & staff

To Mrs Van Zyl and family, I would like to send all my sincere condolences and warm thoughts. We were so devastated by this loss that it is difficult to support you as we would like, far from S.A...we will keep Him in the bottom of our heart and cherish His memory, as we had the great chance to be close to Him during these past years ! Carole Favart

I will sorely miss his humor, charisma, smile and passion. He brought so much to the table that his presence was always felt……even if he had little to say. I have only fond memories of Dr and the many lessons that he taught me. In tough situations his leadership and wisdom shone through and you knew you had his support. Thank you for the positive influence you have had on my life. We have lost a true Toyota & SA legend. To me, his words will forever be etched in the 7 Toyota SA values. Rest in Peace. May almighty God provide comfort and strength to the van Zyl family.

I met "Doc" the first time in 2011 in his office when we were discussing the possibility to do the Dakar Rally as a South African team. He made an immediate impression on me as someone who could talk to anyone, make them feel at ease and was genuinely interested in their opinion. As a team we owe the Doc a lot for his support, dedication and commitment to the Dakar project of which he was very fond of. Thanks Doc for all you did for us and for all the stories, no matter where in the world we saw you! A sad loss not only to Toyota, but to South Africa and the World. Sincere condolences to his wife Santie and the family. Giniel de Villiers

I am so sad yet cross and upset at the same time, of this terrible COVID enemy.. TSAM has done so much for us, the staff during this COVID pandemic.. and yet so ironic that we lose our greatest leader through this disease.. Although I did not get a chance to meet Doc, I will always appreciate everything he has done for the Toyota Family. Goodbye Hero..

There is a Swahili proverbs that says " the death of an old man is like the burning of a Library. We will forever miss Dr Van Zyl s' wisdom and insight here at Toyota Teach. May his soul rest in eternal peace. Dumisani Msomi Toyota Teach

We have lost an Amazing, Inspirational Leader & a Good Man. It was a privilege to Work under Doc's Leadership for many years. My heartfelt Condolences to all the Family, during this sad time. Brenda

Dr was a true leader, I never the first time I was asked to do a leadership essay on a great leader, I choose Dr. His leadership stood out, he was consistent and found a way of being present with his busy schedule. He was more than just a charismatic leader, he saw people and found away to engage with so many. He treated people with respect and made time for so many. The atmosphere changed when he walked down the shop floor, everyone got excited for his visits. It is a true lost to see a great leader fall. He lived his life, and leave a legacy that changed so many people lives. May God comfort his family and give them strength through this difficult time. "To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the Lord has planted for his own glory." Isaiah 61:3

It was a privilege and honor to have met and receive a few awards on stage from a humble and great Leader in the Toyota family.

I send my heartfelt condolences to Johan’s family and wish them strength during this time of shock, grief and heartache. Dr Van Zyl wore many hats and he wore them all in an exemplary way. I will remember him as a wise, compassionate gentleman. With warmest sympathy, Elizanne Wessels

Do not stand at my grave and weep I am not there; I do not sleep I am a thousand winds that blow I am the diamond glints on snow, I am the sun on ripened grain, I am the gentle autumn rain. When you awaken in the morning’s hush I am the swift uplifting rush Of quiet birds in circled flight. I am the soft stars that shine at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry, I am not there; I did not die..... A legend has left us mere mortals to fly free and keep watch... Safe travels doc

In Memory of Dr. Johan van Zyl It is with great sadness to say goodbye to a man who has been part of Motorvia’s journey from our inception. Your passing has touched the whole industry, and that is tribute to the legacy you leave behind: “ There are some who bring a light so great to the world that even after they have gone the light remains. " Your light will live on through us, and your legacy will be honored in our partnership with the Toyota Family. Yours Truly, Christo van Niekerk, Jakes van der Merwe and PJ Thompson On behalf of Motorvia (1993) (Pty) Ltd

Johan The world is a lesser place without you in it. How I will miss our chats, our gossip, but mostly all our laughs.. from visiting customers where I first had to clean the mascara streaks from my cheeks, to joking about your avocado-eating habit in Brussels, to sending you deprecating jokes about the blue bulls and Kurt Darren. No more the joy of seeing JvZ on the tiny screen of my phone..thank you dokter, for never forgetting me, thank you for all the laughs, for your wonderful sense of humour and your humanity..thank you for making the world a better place when you were in it. I leave you with a quote I don't remember the author of, but it seems to be have written for you .."when he dies, cut him into little stars..and he will make the face of heaven so fine that all the world will be in love with night.." Christa (suster)

Dr. J van Zyl cared and was passionate about people working in education. He played a pivotal role in the Toyota Teach Primary School Project by improving the teaching and learning environment of our schools. His vision and guidance will be sorely missed. Esme' Beveridge ,Project Manager of Toyota Teach Primary School Project.

Dr Johan van Zyl South Africa has lost an icon of the motor industry with the passing away of The Doc. He was one of the great motor men to come from this country with his enthusiasm and vast knowledge of virtually everything. Johan was also a car enthusiast of note with a collection of many different models. He will be sorely missed by his family, friends and associates and everybody else in the motor industry. A sad loss. ROGER McCLEERY

A truly inspirational man, a leader of note, and above all - a kind person - treating everyone as equal. You have certainly left your footprint across the world and will be sorely missed. My sincere condolences to your entire beautiful family. Rest easy Doc. Toni

A truly inspirational person, who had a positive impact on everyone he met. I owe so much to him, I will be forever grateful.

Ever felt like you were the tallest yellowwood tree in the world's greatest forest, yet you were only a little bonsai in a huge garden... that's how Doc made me feel as a Dealer in the Toyota Dealer Network! Everyone was equal. Thank you Doc/Dokter, you were truly an honourable, loved man! Noleen Kowie Toyota

We would like to send a message to Santie and the family at this time. We are devastated for your loss and what you must be going through. Johan was the kind of person that gave so much of himself to those around him and this was now your time to spend with him. It feels so wrong. Our hearts break for all of you. We would like to leave you with a quote from Helen Keller as words of comfort “ What we have once enjoyed we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us”. Our prayers and thoughts are with all of you at this time Kerry & Richard

My heartfelt Condolences to the Van Zyl Family during this time of Bereavement .May God Cover them with a Hedge of Love ,Care and Protection

You brought the power of your presence, your compassion and your position to some of the vital humanitarian issues of our time. We are celebrating your legacy and not mourning you because you were one of the rare gems. Rest in eternal peace our Legend.....

An inspirational leader with vision, a true gentleman that lived the Toyota values and had the utmost respect for all. Condolences to the entire family, loved ones and friends.

Rest in peace Johan. Thank you for your great leadership at both regions. We shared African and European experiences always striving to make it one step better. Condolences to your family, we will miss you.

It's with great sadness that we have lost a mentor. I will always appreciate your advice and wisdom. Until we meet again for a canteen lunch.

With shock and sadness I heard of the premature passing of Doc Johan van Zyl. A true gentleman, visionary down to earth leader who was always in control of the situation. I’ll never forget those eyes when making his point at NAAMSA meetings. We’ll miss you Doc. Condolences to Santie and the family. Gert Grundlingh and LightStoneAuto team

Johan was an inspirational leader not only within Toyota, but within the greater automotive industry. Doc inspired and challenge me as a young business leader and was a beacon for innovation as well as good old customer service. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Doc’s family during this difficult time. RIP Johan

My deepest condolences to the Van Zyl family. I had the privilege of interacting with Dr van Zyl a few years ago - those engagements were always positive and inspiring. He was a true gentleman and leader. Rest in peace Johan.

Rest in Peace Dr Johan Van Zyl. I remember your advice you gave me, Remain resilient and positive. Make every year the best. Do not be dragged into gloom but be optimistic. You have been an inspiration to me. Thank you for all what you did for Toyota South Africa, South Africa, and Global Toyota. My prayers and condolences to Santie and the family. We will miss you.

Rest in eternal peace Dr. Van Zyl. He ran his race well and finished it. He made his mark on earth and will forever be remembered.

Thank you Dr. for the role you played in my career and my life from the first day we met in Potchefstroom to discuss the development of a Business course for our Dealer Network. You have been my Boss, my Mentor and also my Friend and I will always be grateful that I had the privilege to know and work with you. Our country has lost one of her greatest sons, but we will work harder and be more dedicated to live the dream that you had for for South Africa. To Santie and the family thank you for sharing him with us. You will always be in our thoughts and prayers.

What an imprint your footsteps have left upon our hearts. I find comfort in knowing that our lives as the Toyota family have been enriched by having shared our lives with a man of your caliber. A man who was a born leader and a humanitarian at heart. May your wife and daughters, as well as Toyota find comfort in God's hands. You will forever be in our hearts. Rest now Mr Dr Van Zyl. From: Simmy Moswana

Doc you will be missed greatly, the opportunities you gave us in this male dominant industry are remarkable. You showed us that no matter the background, race or gender we can be the best version of ourselves if we believe in ourselves and develop ourselves. You were a walking vessel full of love that was overflowing where ever you go. if I had to write you a letter now I would say uyibekile induku ebandla ( You have done well) and you will be forever be in our thoughts. I wish they can name one of the street here in Prospecton as Dr Johan Van Zyl. Rest In Peace

Such a sad day for the all of us but especially for the Van Zyl and Toyota families. His vision, inspirational leadership style, wisdom and character will be sorely missed by all whose paths he crossed. No words can do justice to or truly reflect the legacy you leave behind. Rest in peace Johan.

To Santie Van Zyl, Nadia van Rooy, Karla Swart and families, My heartfelt condolences on your loss. It was a pleasure to know Dr Johan van Zyl. Dr Johan van Zyl will never be forgotten. We will treasure our memories of him forever. Dirk van Wyk (Snr)

We were saddened to learn about the passing of Dr. Van Zyl. We are forever grateful for the wisdom, guidance and support he accorded to Toyota Kenya Family over the years. May his soul rest in eternal peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with Dr. Van Zyl's family during this difficult time. May God comfort you all.

"The true meaning of life is to plant trees under whose shade you do not expect to sit.” Today we are siting under the shade of the many trees(TSAM,TWIMS etc.) you planted and tomorrow the future generations will too take a sit here, your legacy remains Rest in Power Dr

"The true meaning of life is to plant trees under whose shade you do not expect to sit.” Today we are siting under the shade of the many trees(TSAM,TWIMS etc.) you planted and tomorrow the future generations will too take a sit here, your legacy remains Rest in Power Dr

He was a dedicated Man, a visionary, a goal driven man lastly he was A great man, may his soul rest in peace

Dr Van Zyl ,your Leadership will live for long ,I hope Heaven is ready for such charismatic Leadership. May your soul rest in Peace Noks

Dear Johan, It was the saddest news I've ever had that you have passed away. When we met in Brussels in late 2019, you talked about your life plan after retirement in South Africa. I promised you to visit South Africa to drink your wine together. Now it becomes impossible dream. 4 years I spent in South Africa with you were so special. I learned a lot from you, Johan. Needless to say, you are the smartest person and the greatest leader, however, what impressed me most was your human capacity You are very approachable man by anybody, regardless of job position, status, religion, gender, age and even nationality. You listen to us first before you talk. And always you give us some suggestions or advices with smile on your face. We had a lot of challenges during that time, IMV project and global Corolla project. But whenever, we encounter some troubles, you always say "Let's make a plan" , "Maark 'n plan" in Africaans. We were encouraged by your word and had accomplished them with great success. Thank you very much, Johan, for your help and support over the years. Please rest in peace, Johan. Hiroyuki Niwa

we are truly sorry to hear about your loss. please accept our condolences and we pray to the almighty that our co worker's soul rest in peace .our thought and prayers are with you and your family .

Your will always be remembered

just would like to express our sincere condolences to you and your family and We are thinking of you and your family as you celebrate your Doc's remarkable life and the memories you shared.

It was a privilege to have known and worked for Dr. van Zyl. He always had respect for anyone he met and no ego. It is only now we realise how we worked amongst a legend and great visionary leader. Rest in peace doc. We will miss you!

Johan and Santie so many wonderful memories shared with you from Spionkop to the Bahamas and more….. He will not be forgotten and the role and support he gave me in good and difficult times will be cherished forever. Our heartfelt condolences and love to all of you - he will be missed. Harold and Julie

It was an extraordinary privilege to know and work with Doctor at the PPGI, a highly accomplished but humble leader and patriot who cared deeply about the dignity of others. Just when I thought I would learn even more from his wisdom and guidance! Rest in eternal peace Doctor, and rise in glory - Daniel Ngwepe

Doc was an example of what can be achieved and contriuted by one man. His legacy should.be required study for those who aspire to lead. This plea is aimed more.at political aspirants than purely businesspeople. Thank you Doc and Rest in Peace. From all FRRW Consulting

Doc, you have showed the true spirit of leadership, encouragement, getting people involved whether it was a manager or a sweeper. All was treated with respect. Your friendly face will always be with me and the little dealings that we had will always stay with me. RIP and condolences to those who stay behind, never to forget his legacy.

Dr. Johan van Zyl A charismatic, humorous, witty LEADER. - gone too soon

On behalf of Schaeffler South Africa we wish to extend our sincere condolences the the Van Zyl Family and also to the Toyota Family. The Automotive Industry has lost a giant and we have many fond memories of all the professional dealings with Doc Van Zyl. We share your grief and commitment to build on his amazing legacy going forward. May he Rest In Peace.

This is indeed a big loss to all. This is also very sad. May His Dear Soul Rest In Peace.

What a man of Integrity, a loving heart. Mr Johan Van Zyl truly mastered the "TOYOTA WAY"- the respect for people. He would greet and speak to people on the shopfloor, can we all honour his legacy by following his footstep. May his soul rest in peace, good night Dr Johan Van Zyl.

On behalf of my family and the family of CICA Motors Liberia Inc., may the soul of Dr. Johan Van Zyl rest in peace. I know to lose someone who has made such a great impact in the lives of family, community, country, the world and our great company CFAO will be hard to accept, but in the passing times, God will heal our hearts. To the bereaved family, you have allowed your loved one Dr. Zyl to impact generations and his memory will linger on forever. God is your strength. Clementina

Although he had such a high title, he was a very down to earth person. He had respect for people which is 1 of the pillars of Toyota and he was also very much respected by all. He always had a smile on his face. We will all miss you Dr. Van Zyl. R.I.P and fly high with the angels above.

what a unique leader humble ,love people ever smiling rest in peace great leader

He was a true leader very careful about his employees. We loved him as TSM employees RIP DR VAN ZYL WE WILL ALWAYS MISS U WORKING WITH US. May God accept you with warm arms same way you did to us Amen

I remember a presentation at TSAM head office a few years ago. It was either a tea or a lunch break and the Dr was bidding farewell to his guest by walking him to his car at the visitors parking. On his way back he either humbly greeted many of us with a handshake or by a gesture but certainly acknowledged each and everyone that was enjoying the break in the garden outside reception. A thought this was the qualities of an exceptional businessman and LEADER! Rest in Peace DR!

I Remember Dr. Johan Van Zyl At TSAM We Were Outside The Plant On Strike AT The Car Park. In Situation Like This Members Always Communicate With The Union. So Dr. Van Zyl Surprised Us. He Came To The Car Park And Addressed Us. We Were All Shocked And Quiet. He Said ''The Following Day All The TSAM Gates Will Be Opened, The Wage Issues With The Union Have Been Resolved. ''We All Respected Him And Adhere To His Words. Rest In peace.

I clearly remember a day when I was walking up the stairs with colleague, who had this big beach hat on, and Dr van Zyl was going down the stairs. He had a huge smile on his face and asked my colleague if he could join her at the beach. He was always so pleasant when you passed him on the stairs, always greeted, even if he was in a hurry. He will be remembered for being "real"!!

I remember our SMDP graduation evening a couple of years ago. Doc came up to me and greeted me by name; asked me how I had found the course and congratulated me on my results. I was so shocked that I actually blurted out "how do you know my name?" He laughed and tapped me on my shoulder and said that he knew alot about me and was waiting to meet me in person. I saw him occasionally in passing during his trips to Durban and he would always acknowledge me with a greeting or wave. Such a gentleman and great leader.

Doc Toyota Teach Project will always miss your educational support to ensure that the goal of the project is achieved. You were like a lamp to us and pillar of strength in times of need. As the project we will always cherish your wisdom. May your soul rest in peace. To your family we say in IsiZulu "Akwehlanga lungehlanga" which means what happened you has happened before and will happen again to others. May you find peace in knowing that God is with you as you go through this tough time. From Toyota Teach Mentors

I remember when Dr. was General Manager or TMC AFD at Tokyo, he was so kind and showed interest to my small jobs. Also when he was TSAM CEO and we went to TSAM to discuss price increase, he was always staying considerate of circumstances and positions both of Japan and South Africa. He had greatest leadership with gentle and very warm smile. Yoshinari Iriyama on 4th Aug 2021

Sipho Manzini: I will remember him addressing Toyota Family (TSAM), that for us to move forward and be successful in all we do, we need to work together as Team like 4x4. I would think he played his roles, now the baton is in our hands. May his soul RIP.

I remember Dr Van Zyl in those years I was one of Leadership under Union.We used having meetings with Him as leadership of the Union.He used to listen and engaged to all proposal that we were putting to make sure the Company to grow.Dr Van Zyl was treating every body fairly and equally no matter what Gender or Race.

We hope that you find this tribute to The Doc a place of comfort, support and inspiration for you to visit whenever you want or need to.

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