Springbok prop and former Western Province Rugby patron Ockie Oosthuizen has sadly passed away.

Oosthuizen was a giant of South African rugby who will be remembered fondly for his influence both on and off the pitch.

He made his Test debut at DHL Newlands against Ireland in 1981, having made his provincial debut in 1975.

Oostuizen retired from the game in 1985 and worked for players rights before forging a successful business career which saw him become the owner of Molenvliet Wine Estate.

He was made the patron of Western Province Rugby in 2015, taking over from politician Helen Zille.

Oosthuizen is survived by his wife, three children – Ockie jnr, Mirinda, Karin and their partners Rudi snr and Melissa and two grandchildren, Rudi jnr and Gitte-Mari.

WPRFU President Zelt Marais said that Oosthuizen will be remembered as an influential figure in South African rugby.

“We are all saddened by the passing of a great man who did so much for rugby in his time. Our condolences go out to his friends and family,” he said.