Louis van Tonder

Born and raised on the picturesque farm of Wintershoek in the Eastern Free State of South Africa, Louis' childhood was filled with adventures, close encounters with wildlife, and the unique experiences of rural life. In high school, he attended boarding school in Brits, where he enjoyed fantastic school days with great friends and teachers. He studied law at the University of Pretoria, completed his Articles of Clerkship, and then ventured into ranching on his father's property. After a successful crop of peanuts, he bought his own ranch and managed it for ten years. He also worked as a professional hunter and safari guide in South Africa and Zambia, guiding hunters from abroad, until he became disillusioned with the unethical practices and egotism of the industry. At the age of 40, Louis returned to law school to earn a second law degree. The deteriorating political situation in South Africa eventually convinced Louis and his family to relocate to America. This narrative delves into the cultural shock, the strains of adaptation, and the bittersweet experiences of divorce and separation from his children. Yet, through these trials, Louis found resilience and strength, discovering new beginnings after meeting his beloved wife, Terri. Together, they built a fulfilling life on a ranch in Arizona, surrounded by wonderful friends and enriched by their business, African Safaris and Travel—a photographic safari booking agency. Their adventures abroad and the enchanting beauty of African wildlife became significant parts of their story. Despite facing surgeries, pain, and uncertainty, Louis and Terri's love and laughter endured as a testament to their unwavering bond. Their journey was marked by profound life lessons, resilience in the face of adversity, and an unbreakable connection to nature and each other. Their story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of love. From the fields of Wintershoek to the high country of Arizona, Louis' journey is a vivid tapestry of determination, adventure, and the pursuit of a better life. Through the highs and lows, the laughter and the tears, Louis and Terri's love story shines brightly, a beacon of hope and resilience for all who know them.