Bill Lynch, the former chief executive of diversified transport and mobility group Imperial Holdings, died this week at the age of 64.
The company on Monday reported "with great sadness" the death of Lynch, who was associated with the group for 36 years and was still a non-executive director at the time of his death.
Lynch underwent brain surgery in 2006 and relinquished the Imperial crown six months ago when he stepped down as chief executive.
He had led Imperial since it went public in 1987. The company said Lynch was a formidable businessman who built Imperial into a substantial and highly successful firm.
"He was decisive and clear minded in his approach to business, while fairness and compassion characterised his approach to the many people who crossed his path. His untimely passing leaves a great void."
Lynch arrived in South Africa from Ireland in 1971 at the age of 27 with his wife, Ann, and £3 000 (R41 800 in today's money). He joined Imperial Motors, a loss-making car dealership, and led its turnaround, diversification and growth into South Africa's largest transport and mobility conglomerate with a turnover of R66 billion in the year to June.
The company had a market capitalisation of R18 billion yesterday and has been one of the most consistent performers on the JSE.
Lynch was named the 2006 Ernst & Young World Entrepreneur of the Year. He was the first South African to win this award.
Lynch was the epitome of dignity during his reign as head of Imperial and his gentle demeanour and soft Irish accent tended to disguise his toughness as an individual.
His love of the group that he grew to greatness could not be doubted. When he stepped down as chief executive last year, Lynch said: "I love Imperial and have loved every day I have come to work and will remain involved in my own way."