Premier Ewart Brown yesterday expressed his condolences to the Gosling family after the death last week of Malcolm Gosling.

Mr. Gosling, former president and chief executive officer of Gosling Brothers, only retired from his family company in 2005 as the chairman and at the age of 85 passed away.

In a letter sent to the family, Dr. Brown said Bermuda should appreciate the contribution Mr. Gosling made to the Island during his life. He wrote: “I was saddened to hear that you have lost a treasured member of your family.

“It’s no secret that Malcolm Lloyd Gosling played a major role in the success of your family business. These days almost anywhere in the world one can find Gosling Brothers products and that is in large measure due to the efforts of Malcolm Gosling.

“I think the entire country needs to be appreciative of his work because in many ways the stellar reputation of Gosling products reflects well on our image as a country.”

And in his letter to the family, the Premier not only recognised Mr. Gosling’s contribution the business world in Bermuda, but also to his success on the playing field.

Dr. Brown added: “I would be remiss if I didn’t also pay homage to Malcolm Gosling’s notable athletic skills. He was honoured many times, including by the Bermuda Government, for his prowess at tennis and golf.

“The two of us shared a common bond in sport. For example, when I was selected to represent Bermuda in the 1966 Commonwealth Games, Mr. Gosling was among the first to wish me well as he offered his sincere encouragement - athlete to athlete.

“So in Bermuda’s boardrooms and at Bermuda’s sporting facilities, Bermudians will remember Malcolm Gosling fondly, as I know you do.

“On behalf of the Government of Bermuda, and its citizens, I extend heartfelt condolences to the entire Gosling famiIy.”