Brand Pretorius, McCarthy chief executive and former managing director of Toyota SA Marketing, has paid tribute to the late Bert Wessels.
Brand Pretorius, McCarthy chief executive and former managing director of Toyota SA Marketing, has paid tribute to Bert Wessels.
CARtoday.com reported on Monday that Bert Wessels, executive chairman of Toyota South Africa, died of a heart attack on Monday. He was 58.
“Bert’s zest for life, his passion for his business and his hobbies, his quality relationships with his friends and his love for his family, were living testimonies to the fact that he lived life to the full,” Pretorius said.
He said the name Bert Wessels was synonymous with the Toyota brand and its presence in South Africa.
“He followed in the footsteps of his father (Albert Wessels, the founder of Toyota SA) as a successful industrialist with focus and determination. In fact, he created a legacy his father would have been proud of,” Pretorius added.
CARtoday.com reported yesterday that Wessels played a major role through his active involvement in various industry bodies, especially the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of SA.
“He was a committed South African who fulfilled his social responsibilities with enthusiasm and commitment,” Pretorius said.
“Bert was unpretentious, disarming and natural. His seemingly casual attitude misled some people into underestimating him, only to be surprised by his razor sharp intellect, clear thinking and outstanding business acumen.
“During the tough times of his tenure at Toyota, Bert proved that he had courage and steely determination,” Pretorius added.
Pretorius said that Bert Wessels had earned his respect through “his integrity, honesty and competence”.
“He had a focused, no-nonsense approach to business and did not waste time on trivialities. He earned my loyalty through the warmth of his friendship, compassion and support.
“Bert served his country and business with distinction. He enriched our lives and made a difference,” Pretorius concluded.
NOTE: The funeral of Bert Wessels will take place at the Parkkruin NG Kerk, corner of Kilkenny Road and Dundalk Avenue, Parkview, Johannesburg, at 11.30am on Friday.
The funeral will be followed by a private cremation.
Tributes to Wessels can be delivered to the head office of Toyota South Africa, Old Pretoria Road, Wesco Park, Sandton.
Faxes can be sent to 011-444-8250 or 011-444-1194.
