The Laird's Arms

A Tribute to Johnny (14th May 1967 - 3rd March 2024)

John Theunissen, life and soul of the Laird's Arms was sadly lost to us in 2024. His generous smile and open-arms welcome is sorely missed … a highlight was the bugle call for the red bus tour of course – “You can get married in the church and divorced in the bar”, and Johnny’s piano sing-a-longs to “de la Rey - sal jy die Guptas kom kry”, and many others! He would bring a smile to young and old alike - Kids would be asked to hand around his bowler hat - he would say ‘we can share the tips’. But behind the banter and repartee was a serious and humble man, who was ever thoughtful, generous and kind. His affection for Matjiesfontein was unwavering, and his dedication and loyalty to the hotel and wider community is sadly missed. Johhny Theunissen is a true Karoo legend who worked tirelessly to promote Matjiesfontein – he played a huge role in ensuring the smallest Village in South Africa was known far-and-wide.