Former Generations actor David Phetoe, who died last week after complaining of shortness of breath, will be buried on Saturday.

Phetoe died at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital on Thursday. He was 86.

According to relative Molefe Phetoe, he complained of tiredness and shortness of breath three weeks ago.

Molefe said the memorial service will be held at SABC Radio Park tomorrow from 11am. He said the family was still looking for a church to host the funeral service.

Molefe said when the veteran actor died, he had been busy for two years with a documentary of one of the Struggle icons who died during apartheid. He would not reveal the identity of the subject as they were still in talks with the icon's family.

He said Phetoe was the producer of the documentary.

Phetoe made his name with shows like Sgudi 'Snaysi and Going Up with the late Joe Mafela. He also appeared in Velaphi and Imvelaphi and the blockbuster Cry, The Beloved Country. He is famously known for his role as Paul Moroka on Generations.

President of Creative Workers Union, Mabutho "Kid" Sithole poured his heart out: "Bra D was a true fountain of wisdom and a straight talker. We grew up under his guidance both in the arts and here in the township."

He said Phetoe's career began at the famous Dorkay House in the heart of Johannesburg.

"He was a talented and unique actor. Bra D and his contemporaries like Sam Mhangwane and Fats Bookholane rehearsed in town when it was not fashionable for blacks to do that."