Scholtemeyer's husband dies in bike accident

A passionate biker and animal lover, the 52-year-old had been married to Scholtemeyer, who was due to start her new position as CEO of M-Net on Monday 3 March. Both had been supposed to fly up to Johannesburg on Sunday night, 2 March. Details of the accident on Saturday, 1 March 2008, were not available.

In a moving tribute to her husband of 30 years, Scholtemeyer said in an expanded death notice in the Cape Town daily, Cape Times, that her husband's tragic death was not in vain. She paid tribute to his benevolence towards people and animals and his ever-present willingness to assist.

She said she was left with the most wonderful memories, but a shattered heart. She believed Immanuel had left an indelible mark on the hearts of many.

Farewell message

In her farewell message she included the stray dog, Yaki, and stray cat, Jeromina, both of whom had been saved from certain death by his fondness for animals. The funeral was held in Durbanville this morning, Thursday 6 March.

The death of her husband caps several stressful months for Scholtemeyer, who was embroiled in a circulation controversy within her division at Media24. This led to investigations by the Audit Bureau of Circulations (ABC) and the closure of numerous titles and dismissal of staff. Others resigned voluntarily, although investigations are continuing.

Scholtemeyer's new position was announced soon after the scandal broke. She had retained the full support of the Media24 senior management and board. She subsequently resigned as head of the Magazine Publishers Association of South Africa (MPASA) with the assumption of her new position.