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Passing Of Well-Known Businessman And Philanthropist Alan Benn
Passing Of Well-Known Businessman And Philanthropist Alan Benn
Well-known Durban businessman and philanthropist, Alan Benn passed away this morning at the age of 91. Benn who was a Chartered Accountant, practised in the profession for 15 years before purchasing an interest in the JH Isaac Geshen Property Group which ultimately became part of the Accelerate Group.
Benn staunchly subscribed to the tenets of the Jewish faith and always embodied the spirit of giving and supported the less fortunate and was sensitive to people of all walks of life. Having had a long friendship with philanthropist, Victor Daitz, he was instrumental in the establishment of the Victor Daitz Foundation which has since its establishment made charitable donations of more than R400 million, predominantly to KwaZulu Natal causes. During his years of retirement, Benn worked tirelessly the Foundation and reported for work daily at 07h30.
Benn was the President of the South African Jewish Board of Deputies KwaZulu Natal Council and also served on the Council of the University of Natal. In 2008, on the occasion of his 80th Birthday, the Rotary Club of South Africa conferred on him its highest honour, the Paul Harris Fellowship, joining the ranks of Nelson Mandela and Pravin Gordhan.
Benn was a mentor to many young people and was known as a wise and humble person without hubris. His friends and colleagues acknowledged him as one who had the quickest and sharpest wit.
He was a devoted family man and during the long illness of his late wife Jean, his love and care for her was legendary. He is survived by his children Lee-Anne and Clifford and three grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
The Trustees of the Victor Daitz Foundation send their sincere and heartfelt condolences to Lee-Anne, Clifford and the wider Benn Family.