Community Mourns the Loss of Johann Coetzee, Dedicated Engineer

Johannes Petrus Coetzee, known affectionately as Johann, passed away on August 31, 2025, in Bristol, Tennessee, after a battle with incurable cancer. He was born on November 9, 1957, in Paarl, Western Cape, South Africa. Johann’s life was marked by dedication to both his family and his profession, leaving a lasting impact on his community.

Johann spent his formative years in the Western Cape, where he attended the distinguished Paarl Gymnasium. Following his service in the South African army, he earned a National Higher Diploma in civil engineering from Cape Technikon in Cape Town. His early career included roles on the family farm, in diamond mines in Namibia, and various construction projects. He began his professional engineering career at Ninham Shand Consulting Civil Engineers in Stellenbosch.

In 1993, Johann emigrated to the United States with his family. He started his extensive career with the city of Elizabethton, Tennessee, in 1995. Over the years, he managed multiple departments, including water, wastewater, and electric utilities, as well as the engineering division. His commitment to the community was evident in his pride for the work he accomplished and the mentorship he provided to many colleagues.

Family and Community Connections

Johann was a devoted father to his two children, Gerrit and Johanna. He actively participated in their lives, attending dance recitals, parent-teacher conferences, and various sports events. His enthusiasm for family extended beyond his immediate household, fostering connections across continents. Johann became a United States citizen in 2012, while frequently returning to South Africa to maintain ties with relatives.

In 2017, Johann met Danielle Smith, a woman who shared his interests in municipal governance, and they married in 2019. After retiring from the city of Elizabethton in 2021, he focused on home projects, motorcycling, and mentoring his stepson, Zachary Kiser, on his journey to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. Johann’s adventurous spirit and love for learning remained evident throughout his life.

He had a deep appreciation for the outdoors, often hiking, biking, and camping in the picturesque mountains of East Tennessee. Johann enjoyed introducing friends to the art of the braai, the South African tradition of barbecuing, which became a cherished aspect of his gatherings.

A Lasting Legacy

Johann is survived by his wife, Danielle; son, Gerrit Coetzee; daughter, Johanna Turko and her husband, Michael; stepson, Zachary Kiser; and his siblings, including Gerhard Coetzee and his wife, Linda; Heinrich Coetzee and his wife, Maria; and Helena Kershof and her husband, Johan. He also leaves behind several nephews and nieces, including Gerhard Coetzee and his wife, Krevosha Pillay; Lara Coetzee; Hein Coetzee; Leana Coetzee; and Johan Kershof and his wife, Rochelle Kershof, along with great-nieces, Milah and Lianke. His devoted German shepherd, Freya, provided companionship during his final months.

Johann’s family and friends are invited to celebrate his life on September 5, 2025, at the Bristol Hotel, located at 115 Country Music Way, Bristol, Virginia, from 14:00 to 16:00, with a short service commencing at 14:15. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to Water.org, an organization dedicated to providing global water and sanitation solutions.

Condolences can be left online at www.akardfuneralhome.com. The Coetzee family expresses gratitude for the support they have received during this difficult time, and Johann’s stories and spirit will undoubtedly endure in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.