OnTap Magazine

10 | Autumn 2026 | ontapmag.co.za When Megan Gemmell and Dion Van Huyssteen discovered who their stalkers were. My dad wasn’t just a brewer, he was a people collector. If you were anywhere near beer, chances are you knew him, and if you weren’t, he probably invited you in anyway. A tech lover, drummer, builder, traveller, and relentless optimist, he believed beer was never just about what was in the glass, but about who was around it. He built community as naturally as he built kegerators, friendships, and weekend projects, always with his whole heart and that unmistakable laugh that filled any room. He showed up, for his family, his friends, and anyone who needed him, and made joy feel normal, pride feel loud, and belonging feel effortless. His legacy lives on in every shared pint, every spontaneous conversation, and every moment we choose connection, curiosity, and celebration, just like he did. Courtney Pienaar Whether it was the middle of a manic beer fest or a dusty drive back from Greyton, Julian showed up, with his big grin, big laugh and an even bigger hug. He didn’t just wave from a distance, he came over. He leaned in. He made you feel seen. I’ll always smile warmly at the memory of driving back from Fools & Fans, absolutely desperate for a wee, only to have what we thought was a “stalker car” pulling in behind us every time we stopped along the road in the Karoo. After a few failed attempts and a bladder that could wait no longer, we discovered our “stalkers” were none other than Jules andWends, simply trying to say hello. Only Jules would accidentally ambush you on the side of the road, in the middle of nowhere, just to give you a hug. That was him. He showed up for people. Every time. No matter what. His presence — steady, generous, and warm — will be missed more than words can say. Megan Gemmell Attending the funeral of this magnificent man was extremely moving. He was widely loved, loyal to a fault and extremely capable. Many's the time we used to talk while he was brewing and doing his computer work and in a meeting. He took multitasking to a new level. He will be so sorely missed by all who knew him, especially his best friend and partner in crime, Wendy. A giant has fallen. Trevor Gerntholtz Julian at At Hops End in 2019 Wendy, Courtney and Julian