Cat Angel Refuge Mourns Ephraim and Rallies Around His Family

The team at Cat Angel Refuge are rallying to support the vulnerable family of a loyal worker who sadly lost his battle with cancer on Saturday.

North West, South Africa (09 February 2026) – Ephraim was a part of the family at the Cat Angel Refuge – Zeerust’s only animal welfare organisation.

He showed up each week, tending to the property’s gardens and making sure the animals who had already been through so much had a safe, welcoming space. He understood the plight of animal welfare and it showed in his willingness to work, even through his darkest chapters.

Last year, staff at Cat Angel Refuge noticed that Ephraim wasn’t well and insisted he seek medical help. He was turned away from one clinic before eventually reaching another, which referred him to hospital. There, doctors discovered he urgently needed a blood transfusion.

“Ephraim, even though incredibly ill, still wanted to work,” the organisation shared.

It was advanced cancer.

“We could see he was struggling. We told him his job would be waiting when he recovered. We hoped that promise would give him something to hold onto.”

Sadly, on Saturday night in hospital, Ephraim lost his fight.

“His family informed us this morning. We are struggling as a charity right now, but we cannot stand by and do nothing. Ephraim leaves behind his wife and three children. They need a little hope and kindness wrapped around them.”

Ephraim is survived by his wife and children. The shelter says their greatest concern right now is making sure the family doesn’t feel alone in the days ahead. While Cat Angel Refuge is struggling financially itself, the team has stepped in where they can.

‘We have ensured his dogs are cared for and will speak with his wife about taking them over. For now, it is his family who need to feel that they are not alone.”

The animal shelter is asking its community to help them support Ephraim’s family. One of the their most immediate needs is food. To address this, the organisation is putting together a food hamper of non-perishable items for the family, who are currently living without electricity.

“If you would like to help us put together a food hamper, it would mean so much. Please no perishables as they do not have electricity. Basics would be deeply appreciated.”

Mielie meal, potatoes, pasta, soya mince, soup, noodles, instant porridge for the youngest child, long-life milk, tea, coffee and sugar all go a long way. Comfort items like biscuits or chips are also welcome.

“Let us show his family that the community Ephraim helped care for will now help care for them.”

The team has also shared that once they have a better idea of what the family needs, they will look at setting up a BackaBuddy account.

In the interim, if you would like to show some support for Ephraim’s family, follow this link for more information.

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