Farewell Tendai Chanza: A Tribute to a Life Well-Lived

By Shingirai Vambe

The sudden passing of Tendai Chanza on April 1, 2025, left many in shock, and to this day, it’s still hard to accept and believe that he’s truly gone. Born in 1978, Chanza was a beloved figure in Rusape, known for his infectious laughter and jovial nature. His departure sent ripples of sadness throughout the community, leaving many wondering what could have been. God, it seemed, had robbed the residents of Rusape of a kind and gentle soul.

For those who knew him, Chanza was more than just a face; he was the heartbeat of Bhola Hardware in Rusape. His exceptional public relations skills and love for soccer made him a beloved figure in the business community. His warm smile and welcoming demeanor put everyone at ease, making customers feel like family. But now, that smile is gone, and the void left behind is palpable.

The news of his passing spread like wildfire, leaving many stunned and disbelieving. According to medical experts, Chanza suffered a cardiac arrest, collapsing and passing away on that fateful Tuesday around mid-morning while attending to personal errands. It was as if time stood still, and in a split second, a life was gone.

Even as friends, family members, and workmates paid their last respects, the reality of his passing was still hard to accept. As he lay in his coffin, his smile seemed to linger, a testament to the joy and warmth he brought to those around him. The loss is still being felt deeply, not just by his family but by the entire Rusape community.

Chanza’s journey took him from Marondera to Rusape years ago, where he fell in love with the climate, the Maungwe people, and everything about the town. Despite his relocation, he maintained strong ties with those in Marondera, who still claim him as their own. His loving and joyful character endeared him to many, leaving a gaping hole in the lives of those who knew him.

Like anyone, Chanza had his flaws and imperfections, but one thing was certain – he was a man without grudges. He called a spade a spade, and his straightforward nature earned him respect from those around him. However, even in death, his human side has been laid bare, with whispers of past relationships and affairs circulating among those who knew him. He leaves behind a wife and nine children, a testament to the complexities of human relationships.

Despite his imperfections, Chanza’s good deeds and kindness far outweighed his flaws. His exceptional customer service and public relations skills made him a favorite among Bhola Hardware clients, many of whom have his number saved on their phones. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched, and the memories of his warmth and generosity will continue to inspire those who knew him.

The outpouring of love and respect for Tendai Chanza was palpable as over a thousand people gathered to pay their last respects. The Methodist church, where the funeral service was held, was filled to capacity, with many attendees having to sit outside due to the sheer number of mourners. The crowd was a testament to the impact Chanza had on the community, with friends, family, and acquaintances all coming together to bid him farewell.

As the service concluded, a long convoy of over 100 cars escorted Chanza’s coffin to Nyabadza village, where he was laid to rest. The procession was a poignant display of the community’s love and respect for the deceased, with many people lining the roads to pay their last respects.

It was almost impossible to avoid the news of Chanza’s funeral, as the Rusape business community came out in numbers to pay their respects. Friends, colleagues, and everyone who knew him wanted to be there to bid him farewell, a testament to the impact he had on the lives of those around him. The turnout was a reflection of Chanza’s kind and generous spirit, which had touched the hearts of so many people.

As news of his passing spread, tears flowed freely, and shivers ran down the spines of those who had been touched by his kindness. Born of the Soko Mkanya totem, Chanza’s impact on those around him will never be forgotten. Though he’s no longer with us, his memory will live on, a reminder of the power of kindness, compassion, and love.

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