Ethan Coetzee Praised by St Stithians Community As Family Remains Silent
- Ethan Coetzee’s St Stithians community has continued to remember him warmly, with tributes reflecting the impact he had on those around him
- A former teacher has offered a touching glimpse into the young man Ethan became, recalling the boy he once taught at St Stithians
- While heartfelt tributes continue to emerge from those who knew Ethan, his family has not made a public statement about his death
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Source: Facebook
Ethan Coetzee has been warmly remembered by members of the St Stithians community following his death, with a former teacher describing him as an “amazing young man”. His family, however, has not publicly commented on the tragedy.
The 19-year-old was found dead alongside 17-year-old St Stithians Girls’ College pupil Cameron Waldeck-Cooks at a lodge near Sabie, Mpumalanga, on Monday, 3 August 2026. Police have since opened a murder investigation into Cameron’s death, while they believe Ethan may have taken his own life.
Former teacher pays tribute
A former educator remembered Ethan from his younger years, saying:
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“You were just the kindest little boy in the JP, and you grew into an amazing young man. You will be missed.”
Other members of the Saints community also described him as “an incredible young lad, so full of life” and recalled him with fondness.
St Stithians said Ethan completed his entire Grade R to Grade 12 journey at the school between 2013 and 2025. He was a 1st XV rugby colours recipient, a national Eventing champion and a senior at Penryn House.
Ethan’s family remains out of the public spotlight
While Ethan’s school has publicly honoured him, his family has not released a statement.
This contrasts with Cameron’s parents, Derrick Cooks and Claire Waldeck-Cooks, who spoke publicly on 7 August and described their daughter as “kind-hearted, warm and determined”.
St Stithians said Ethan had a “natural warmth and charisma” and could make others feel “seen, valued, and supported”.
The tributes remain one of the few public glimpses into the life of the young man whose death is still being investigated.
Source: Facebook
St Stithians Teen Cameron Waldeck-Cooks' Parents Break Silence
Briefly News previously reported that the parents of St Stithians Girls' College learner Cameron Waldeck-Cooks have spoken publicly about why the 17-year-old travelled to Sabie, Mpumalanga, before her death.
The family said Cameron had been working towards the Gold level of The President's Award for Youth Empowerment and viewed the hiking trip as an opportunity to complete part of the programme. Her parents also shared an emotional tribute to the teenager as police continue investigating her death.
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Proofreading by Kelly Lippke, copy editor at Briefly.co.za.
Source: Briefly News
