The sudden passing of the 37-year-old Kimberley native comes as a shock to the community of this Northern Cape city as the beloved figure was seemingly well at his restaurant on Friday where he was seen greeting patrons. He was considered to be the life of the Kimberley restaurant scene.

OFM News spoke to The Half Restaurant manager, Armand van der Merwe, who described Williams as a gentleman who was adored by locals and as someone who would go out of his way to help those in need.

 “He was well-known in Kimberley. He was a great chef and owner of the Occidental Bar and The Half Restaurant which opened recently. He was well-known for his passion for food, for cooking and his passion for music,” Van der Merwe said.

Funeral arrangements are yet to be made known by the family.

Daniel Williams’s generosity extended beyond Kimberley when he decided to do his bit by raising money through the Knysna Fire Relief Music Festival. The ticket proceeds were donated with the aim of helping the 600 families who lost their homes in the devastating Knysna Fires of June 2017.

Williams also shared his 16-years’ experience and expertise with buddying chefs at the Butler’s Hotel School alongside Van der Merwe.

OFM News