Governor of New Ireland, Sir Julius Chan, has expressed his condolences to the family of longtime friend and businessman, late Sir Henry Chow.
In a letter to the family of late Sir Henry, the Governor expressed his sadness at the loss of a beloved husband and father. He said: “I am saddened by his passing. I feel I have lost a childhood best mate. Indeed I know I am not alone in this - his passing is of great sorrow and sadness, a true loss for so a man.”
The Governor said his memories of late Sir Chow are many and deep, where both grew up in Rabaul with their parents, sharing a close friendship despite the pressures of starting businesses and raising their families.
Sir Henry was with him when he tied the knot with his wife Stella; rose in business in dockyard and shipping and later expanding the Lae Biscuit Company, even partaking in politics as one time Treasurer of the People’s Progress Party and loyal political supporter.
“We have all lost a great man and the Lae business community and PNG has lost a distinguished and true friend,” said the Governor.
“Many in Rabaul remember his humanitarian and giving nature, such as the time he arranged to ferry to safety the people caught in the double eruptions of Matupit and Vulcan volcanoes in 1994.
“This was not an isolated incident, and the unselfish things he did for others have touched many lives and will long be remembered by those he helped and supported.
“I am proud of the worthy recognition from the Queen, awarding him first with the honour of the Most Distinguished Order of the British Empire OBE and later a Knight Bachelor,” Sir Julius said.
He said Sir Henry was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather and friend, leaving the family an impressive legacy to sustain.
“As a friend, I am comforted that I was able to spend even a brief time with Sir Henry just last month in Lae, sitting together reminiscing old times.
“In many respects, Sir Henry was part of the making of Papua New Guinea as a nation, for which our younger generation can aspire to emulate,” Sir Julius added.
“On behalf of Lady Stella, our children, Vanessa, Mark and Toea and their families; the Member for Namatanai, Byron Chan and his family, the Government and people of New Ireland and executives of the People’s Progress Party and my staff all join me in expressing our deepest condolence to you and your family.
“May he rest in eternal peace.
“Old soldiers never die they just fade away.”
(Picture: The National Research Institute)