By: Natasha Archary
Reeva Steenkamp’s father, Barry has died at the age of 80-years, passing away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday evening, 14 September.
Reeva, was shot and killed by her boyfriend, paralympian Oscar Pistorius on 14 February 2013. Her father died still advocating for her killer to remain behind bars and not be released on parole.
Barry Steenkamp and his wife June strongly rejected Oscar Pistorius’ version of events on the night their daughter was violently murdered.
The parents of the model pleaded with Pistorius to admit that he shot and killed their daughter knowingly, but the “blade runner” denied this, saying he thought he was shooting an intruder.
Reeva’s lifeless body was found in the bathroom of the Silver Woods Estate she shared with Pistorius.
Barry Steenkamp died 10-years after his daughter’s death, and before he could get any closure from Pistorius. He believed Pistorius shows no remorse for Reeva’s murder.
Pistorius has been pushing for parole but his request was denied earlier this year, owing to him not completing half of his prescribed prison sentence.
Since Reeva’s death, her father suffered two strokes, and a mental breakdown, and his health condition had deteriorated over the past year.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden and peaceful passing of Barry Steenkamp in his sleep, on the early evening of 14 September 2023.
Barry was a blessing to many, and he will be remembered with love and great fondness.
We find solace in the knowledge that he is now with his beloved Reeva.”
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