Torremolinos: It is with great sadness and sorrow that we report the
passing of Jim Power, Secretary General of Skål International. Jim died in
his sleep at his home in Spain, on Saturday, June 12, 2010.
Jim Power - Secretary General
Skål International 1949-2010
Born on June 23, 1949, the late Mr. Power was in Sydney
on June 9, 2010 to attend the golden anniversary luncheon of Skål
International. One hundred and sixty Skålleagues and their guests
participated in the celebrations. It was to be his last trip.
“He was a regular visitor to Thailand and Asia,” said
Brian Sinclair-Thompson, President of Skål Intl Thailand. “We have lost a
long time friend and Skålleague, our deep sympathies and condolences go out
to Skalleagues worldwide upon learning of the sudden and unexpected passing
of Jim Power.”
He added, “It is very hard not to think of the one
without the other, as his wisdom and guidance were always there to the
benefit of all. May the memory of Jim live on in all that we do.”
Skål Asia President Gerry Perez said, “Our hearts and
prayers go out to Jim’s family and his co-workers, who are deeply shocked by
Jim’s sudden departure. Jim, I am sure, would have wanted everything to
continue and run smoothly as normal, but Jim was special… and we shall take
time to remember and honour him. He was always so dedicated to advancing the
association; it was his life and passion.”
The news comes as shock to many travel and tourism
stakeholders as the late Mr. Power was one of the industry’s highly-regarded
individuals. He was frequently seen at many industry events such as ITB in
Berlin and World Travel Market in London, as well as many Skål events held
across the globe.
Long time Skๅlleague and friend of the late Mr. Power,
Malai Sakolviphak, Past President of Skål Intl Thailand said, “Jim was one
of the most professional, consistent administrators I have ever seen. He ran
a very tight ship and he was widely regarded by everyone. For most involved
in travel and tourism Jim was often the face of Skål Intl, a constant in an
ever changing world. We will miss him.”
Always ready to help everyone who asked, his written
replies and answers to any query were perfect in form and content, no matter
what time of day or night. He set a standard of administration that was
truly remarkable, but above all he was a close friend to many and regarded
with the utmost respect by the rest of the industry shocked and saddened
upon learning of Mr. Power’s death.
Local President Ingo Raeuber of Skål Intl Pattaya and
East Thailand commented, “Jim’s Irish roots were a very important to him. I
think he particularly cherished meeting the Pope and Jim always had a smile
and laugh for everyone where appropriate. Jim was always the focus point for
all 20,000 global Skål members. He will be missed and the tributes from
around the world have started to pour in.”
Jim Power was a good person; he cared about others not
just with words but also action. He was a consummate diplomat, a patient
teacher and a mentor to many. God bless you Jim and may you rest in eternal
peace.
Andrew J. Wood
Skål Intl Councillor - Thailand
& VP South East Asia
