Family of KZN historian still in shock over his death
Family and friends of well-known KZN battlefield historian, Ken Gillings, are still in shock following his death on the north coast.
Gillings drowned on Friday while snorkelling in the Cape Vidal area. Gillings had conducted extensive research into the country’s battlefields and wrote numerous articles and books on the subject. He had conducted tours around the province’s historic sites for more than 4 decades.
His wife, Heather, has told Newswatch he taught his family to love and respect nature and the outdoors. She says the entire family is battling to come to terms with his passing.
"To me he was my best friend. He has been my friend for many years and we have been married for 42 years. He has been a loving and supportive husband," she said.
"He has supported me in all the things that I have done and with him we have had a wonderful family and outdoor life," Gillings said.
"In respect of Gillings’ will the family will not hold a memorial service for him," she said.