Sad news: former postman Joseph Proven has passed away. Affectionately known as ‘Jef de facteur’, he was a distinguished figure for all of Tervuren, impeccably dressed on his bicycle. Always friendly and ready to chat.
Even at the tender age of ninety, Joseph was very active, often seen cycling to and from the Friday market, cemetery and even to shop in Leuven. His dedication to cycling was evident in an interview as ‘Cyclist of the Month’ published in August 2022 in the newsletter of Fietsersbond Tervuren. There Joseph shared insights into his lifelong passion for cycling and recounted his remarkable achievements, including being crowned champion of Brabant and riding alongside legendary Belgian cyclist Eddy Merckx.
One thing Joseph would not have was an e-bike. Everyday cycling, on occasion to shop in Leuven, was his way of staying fit.
Jef speaking to RobTV (from 0:38, in Dutch).
Fietsersbond Tervuren’s interview (in Dutch), originally published in August 2022.
