KwaDukuza community mourns two well-known brothers who passed away within minutes of each other
Dr Yogen Kista and his brother Mahen Kista died on Thursday
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A KWAZULU-NATAL north coast family is grappling with an unimaginable heartache as they mourn the sudden death of two well-known KwaDukuza brothers.
Dr Yogendiran Kista, known affectionately as Yogen, 57, and his elder brother Mahen Kista, known as Smiley, 59, died just moments apart on Thursday in KwaDukuza.
Mahen, a teacher at Darnall Secondary School who lived in Stanger Manor, reached out to his son Mikhail when he began feeling unwell.
Mahen's son, Gino, said his brother called the paramedics and his uncle Yogen, a well-known doctor in KwaDukuza.
"When my uncle arrived he assessed my dad but realised it was too late. The paramedics arrived after my uncle and while my brother was opening the gate for them my uncle collapsed.
"Paramedics tried assisting my uncle but he passed away. Both their passing is a major shock to the family as they were the pillars of our family," said Gino.
He said his dad, who was meant to retire next year, had underlying issues, but had not been ill.
"My uncle was very fit and had no underlying conditions," said Gino.
He said his dad, who he had last spoken to that morning, was simple, kind, had a big heart and was willing to help anyone.
Yogen's son, Kian, said his dad was also not ill.
He said his father and uncle were very close who spoke and met regularly.
Kian said the family was having tremendous difficulty coming to terms with the sudden passing.
Following news of the brothers passing, a number of people took to social media to express their condolences.
One social media user wrote: "I knew them both, very successful individuals, yet both so humble."
Another wrote: "Heartbreaking news of such beautiful souls. My sincerest sympathies to the family. We all share good memories together being raised in Stanger and going to school together. Rest in Peace my friends."
The brothers funeral will take place today from 12 to 3pm at the Stanger Siva Sungum Hall.