After years of guiding the young and old with dedication and a ready smile, beloved Uncle Charlie, the 70-year-old traffic warden in Kloofnek, has retired, leaving behind a legacy of safety, kindness, and gratitude that has inspired hundreds of Capetonians.
Cape Town, South Africa (01 October 2025) – For years, the young and old have been greeted and guided by the warmest of souls at the zebra-crossing on Kloofnek.
Mr Charles, affectionately known as Uncle Charlie, had become more than just a traffic warden; he’s been a beloved figure in the community. With a ready smile, Uncle Charlie ensured the safety of children and everyday commuters, making each crossing somehow feel special.
Born and raised in Bo-Kaap, at the age of 70, he still loved his job and was adored even more by those who had the pleasure of meeting him as they went about their day.
Yesterday marked Uncle Charlie’s last day on the job, the beginning of his well-deserved retirement and the quiet impact he had on just about everyone he encountered – affording parents the peace of mind their children were safe, the elderly had a friendly face to look forward to on their walks, and that traffic was always well controlled.
Cape Town’s Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis also honoured Uncle Charlie for all he has done for the community, and for always going the extra mile.
“His warm and friendly smile has always been accompanied by a broom to sweep the pavement around his ‘station’ when not helping school kids across the road!
“Uncle Charlie is a wonderful example of what it means to be a true servant of his community,” Hill-Lewis said.
Many more Capetonians flooded social media with heartfelt messages, appreciating Charlie and wishing him well on his retirement.
“Enjoy your retirement and think of the joy you gave to so many children and their parents,” Joy Schaffers said.
“Was sad to see the sign this morning. Been driving past him for the last 12 years. Always friendly. Thank you for your service, Sir,” commented Chimone Claassens.”
Ronel Smit also wrote:
“Enjoy your well-deserved retirement. I am sure the community will miss you and your dedication.”
These are just a few of over 470 comments on a single post from people who were inspired and impacted by Uncle Charlie. It all just goes to show that he truly was a traffic warden with a heart for people and a pillar of the community.
Sources: Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis
Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google.
Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:
Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.
by 