I had known Etienne for 16 years, since I first worked on a project under his lead for Geberit Singapore. There’s something magical about Etienne – you could feel so comfortable instantly with his voice and presence. He was one of my Boss and a well-respected manager at Geberit HQ, yet he remained humble, approachable and treated everyone with respect. Etienne was my role-model, my mentor, my coach, my cheerleader who always encouraged me especially during my initial years at Geberit. He was always patient, professional and willingly shared his talents and knowledge. Beyond the professional work area, Etienne was exemplary in his attitudes and behavior, he was always respectful of different cultures, he did not judge people despite different viewpoints. Etienne was the kindest person I’ve known, he truly cared for his family, friends and colleagues. We became good friends despite living in different parts of the world, and would always make time to keep in touch or meet up when he was in Singapore.
Etienne did not just appear in my life….. he had touched my life and inspired me to be a better person. Even as I went through the challenging life journeys some years back, Etienne offered a listening ear, words of encouragement and positivity and made efforts to help. Thank you Etienne, I’m so grateful and blessed to have you as my friend.
It’s too heart-breaking that Etienne is no longer with us. I remember my conversation with Etienne last year when we met in Singapore – he asked when will be my next visit to Europe, and reminded me that he, his wife and sons would love to host me at Holland to reciprocate the hospitality when they visited Singapore; I had promised him that I will visit within the next 3 years….....
Dear Brigitte, Frank and Mark – my deepest condolence; words alone may not suffice to comfort you. I, together with hundreds of people, had the privilege of Etienne’s friendship, thank you for sharing him with us. Etienne loves you so much, and I remember the sparkle in his eyes whenever he talks about Frank, Mark or Brigitte. I will always be here for you, anytime, as Etienne had always made time for me.
A good friend comforted me by saying Etienne lives on. When I stop and reflect, it’s so true – Etienne lives on in me, he had influenced me in so many positive ways and shaped my working style and attitudes. Etienne inspired me to do good and I will follow the examples set by Etienne so his legacy lives on.
Thank you so much Etienne, for everything, for being the wonderful person that touched so many lives. May God bless you, and may God bless Brigitte, Frank and Mark.
KJ, from Singapore
