It is reported that Quiteria Atelier's ex-fiancé, Phakamani Mbhele, also known as Mario, has died by suicide. According to Sunday World, the fashion designer took his own life. This comes just months after Quiteria's death.
According to the publication, Mario died by suicide at his home in KwaZulu-Natal. Sources close to the designer said before Quiteria passed away, they were planning on getting back together.
“Phakamani took time out to just find his path and moved in with Brinette while working with her. They were planning on getting back together when Quiteria died,” a close friend told the publication. “It’s a shame. I know things were not going well for Mario. He was getting his career off the ground, he had big plans. Quiteria had started a brand for him and he was supposed to flourish. But I think something must have triggered him.”
One of Quiteria’s family members, Vincente Moet Kekana also commented on the death of Peekay, “We are still trying to come to terms with Q’s death and it has been tough, but we are holding the fort. We are doing what he would have wanted and that is continuing his legacy. Mario played a big role once in Quiteria’s life and we hope he is resting and free from what was troubling him.”
Quiteria was never shy to speak about his health and even asked people to help with the financial part of it.
Quiteria told Sunday World at the time that he was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. “It has been tough, having to think positively, work on my health and being responsible for the lives of those that I work with and their families. We truly pray for better days,”he said.
“Friends have assisted in paying some of my medical bills. I’ve managed to sell some of my belongings to keep the store and studio open until I get better,” he revealed.
“Many people know it as the Kahler’s disease, but multiple myeloma is basically cancer that forms in a type of white blood cell called a plasma cell. Cancerous plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow and crowd the healthy blood cells and produce abnormal proteins that can cause complications,” he was quoted as saying.
His family released a statement announcing his death, “It is with profound regret and sadness that the Kekana family confirms the untimely passing of international fashion designer, son, father, and brother Lebogang Quiteria Kekana, 38, after a short battle with cancer. Quiteria sadly passed away on April 17 2022 at his Melville home.”
"We ask that you please keep us in your prayers. The Kekana family is deeply thankful for all the countless personal messages of love and support received thus far. The details of his memorial and funeral will be confirmed in due course.”
