Wisconsinites are joining the rest of the world in mourning the death of Nelson Mandela.  The South African president who brought an end to racial apartheid in his home country died yesterday at age 95.  UW-Milwaukee provost and vice-chancellor Johannes Britz is a native of South Africa, and said Mandela's legacy will go far beyond his vision and political agenda.  Britz said the moral compass he gave his people, and the imperative to forgive and reconcile, was nothing short of a miracle.  Wisconsin United Methodist Church Bishop Hee-Soo Jung said his fellow bishops were in "awe" when they met Mandela at a meeting in Mozambique in 2006.  Jung called Mandela a servant leader who led an "extraordinary life."  Jung said the entire world would miss his powerful presence and solidarity of spirit.  U.S. House Democrat Gwen Moore of Milwaukee said the world has lost a visionary leader, and a hero for human rights.  Milwaukee Alderman Joe Davis serves as a Wisconsin honorary consul to South Africa.  He called Mandela "a shining example to us all."  Davis said Mandela's convictions quote, "were tested beyond the bounds of comprehension, and he emerged from his trials more resolute where lesser men -- many men -- would have given up hope."  

 

 

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