It’s with honour and great sadness that we inform you of the passing of a friend and colleague, our Commercial Manager Derek John Watson.
 

Derek has left a huge void for his family, friends, and colleagues. His warm heart, infectious smile, and positive outlook on life will be greatly missed. He was a man of the highest integrity and lived his life to the fullest and was loved by all. Derek always listened and provided support and guidance from his vast experience, across all parts of the business. He lived the company values as he lived his own. The passion that Derek showed to the lighting industry with his work ethic, and dedication was exceptional let alone his achievements at BEKA Schréder and the Schréder global family, this stands above all that we have seen, his legacy will live on.

“I have known Derek for more than thirteen years and there was no other colleague who had a vast sales and technical lighting knowledge that I have met, I always learnt from him and enjoyed every moment I spent with him. Derek’s knowledge of all the aspects of the BEKA Schréder business will be missed, his value and input will be treasured. He certainly guided me in my operations and now general manager role. I truly thank him for all the advice and knowledge he has shared with me, he has added value to my life.” Daniel Kasper.

Derek’s journey started in November 1989 as a Regional Sales Engineer until May 1996 taking on the Regional Manager role at the KZN branch. Derek was then promoted to National Commercial Manager in February 2018. With decades of dedicated, loyalty and passion to the organisation, we can only appreciate the time we had with Derek. We have lost a great man. Derek, we stand and solute you.

Our hearts and thoughts go out to Derek’s family during this difficult time.

Should you wish to convey your condolences, please forward to info@beka-schreder.co.za