George Fenech was a very quiet man, reserved and kept himself to himself, so much so that very few people knew him as an individual but more as a businessman.

However, George was more than a very successful businessman;he was a fine husband and father as well as a strong leader to his brothers and sisters.

I never had the occasion to ask George for anything for me personally but I can assure you that if I did it would be immediately forthcoming. He was that sort of man. His generosity to those who needed help was outstanding and I am sure that, due to his amazing generosity and good example, his family will carry on his philanthropic work.

My main association with George was in the property business. I did many transactions through him and many of these were agreements, purely on a handshake.

His word was his bond. There are not many people in the world of business to whom these words can be safely applied. He had all the time in the world for those he truly trusted and respected. I reciprocated by respecting him and trusting in him completely.

George had an amazing foresight especially in the property business.

By building and finishing the Portomaso development, his company changed the face of the property market in Malta, from one being a bit here and a bit there type of market, becoming a standard that was equal to any high-class development anywhere in the world.

From his template, other quality developments were developed, marketed and sold throughout the islands.

It is a great pity that George was called from life at such a relatively young age because I am sure that we would have seen even greater ventures emanating from his excellent group of family companies.

I look forward to seeing the success that will be forthcoming with the fine leadership of his brothers and his personal family.

Your business colleagues and friends will miss you George.