The 68-year-old was serving his second four-year term as president of the Boland Rugby Union.

A qualified teacher, he also briefly served as the acting mayor of Montagu. However, Mr Pekeur will best be fondly remembered for his long and distinguished administrative service to his beloved Boland rugby community.

Mr Pekeur rose through the administrative ranks in his province, from chairman of the local referees society to Boland club rugby manager and eventually as the elected provincial president.

"Ivan cared deeply for the development of club rugby and match officials in the rural areas," said Mr Alexander.

"I know the plight of match officials was a matter very close to his heart and he spend much of his time in rugby administration championing their cause.

“The condolences of SA Rugby go to his wife Dina, family and the many friends at this very sad time.”

The funeral arrangements will be confirmed shortly.