Tony Mifsud writes:

The deacon of the air-freight industry in Malta, Lino Bonello, passed away on July 12. He was 84.

I knew Lino for many years. He was an honest, hard-working and kind executive who devoted his life to his family and to the organisation he managed. He was a managing director coming from the old school of business management: cordial, educated, intelligent and respectful.

I used to make it a point to meet Lino at his office at least once monthly. Tea, coffee, biscuits or sandwiches would be on our meeting table.

His deep voice and his charming smile made a sharp contrast. In every meeting we had, Lino would have time to talk about other things besides business: our dear ones, our health, our daily pressure of life.

By time, we became mentors to each other. He was thrilled with emotion when Lufthansa Cargo honoured him with the Lufthansa Cargo Personality Award in 2005 and when Lufthansa Cargo organised a dinner for him on his retirement in 2010.

I called him at his home on the Sunday before the day he passed away. But he was not there. He was in hospital.

He missed my call but not that of the Lord who was calling to give him the reward of everlasting happiness.I am sure he became emotional and cried with joy on receiving His award.

Auf wiedersehen!