Jos Verlooy Sr., father of Axel and grandfather of Jos Verlooy, has left us unexpectedly at the age of 81.

No one understood the art of life as well as Bompa, as Jos Verlooy Sr. was nicknamed. In his last interview, he said: "Actually, my whole life has been beautiful. I have always been happy and content. As a child that was so, and it is no different today.”

Jos Verlooy Sr. was a born entrepreneur. But even more than a successful entrepreneur, he was a cheerful optimist who was happy when he made others happy. And above all, that was his biggest trademark.

In his company, he worked for thirty years with the same employees, the same customers and the same suppliers. Jos Verlooy lived by the rule that in a happy atmosphere everything runs better. And he created that atmosphere every day, for 81 years, at home, at work and among friends.

He radiated and lived, and also let others shine and live. Jos Verlooy Sr. also engaged in equestrian sports, and competed too. He left this legacy to his son, and later to his grandson.

The world has lost a colourful, ever smiling and fundamentally happy friend. Jos was an example for life and the world would be much more beautiful if we follow in his footsteps.