By MyVue News.com Staff Reporter
Basseterre, Monday, 31st July 2023, (My Vue News.com)-The business and sporting communities in St. Kitts have lost a true stalwart who gave so much to his country for many decades.
It was with much sadness that the news was received on Monday, 31st July, 2023, that Ian Slack of New Pond Site, Basseterre, St. Kitts, died at his home.
Slack served as the General Manager of the St. Kitts Bottling Company for over 40 years.
Ian Slack on his 80th birthday in 2019
As head of the Bottling Company, Slack ensured that many social and cultural causes were supported by the corporate entity, including the annual Miss St. Kitts & Nevis Carnival Pageant.
In 2013, on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of independence, he was amongst the list of persons honoured by the Government of St. Kitts & Nevis, for his contribution to industry and trade.
Not only did Slack associate the Coco Cola Brand with the carnival sponsorship, but he also took a hands-on posture to ensure that the contestants, (and the pageant), were well-served and organized.
Slack was also one of the leading forces behind the once well-established Bridge Club, which was headquartered at Fortlands. He represented the country in this discipline for many years.
One of his crowning moments was in 2008, when he and his Bridge partner, Dr. Laughton Richardson, won the 21st OECS Bridge Tournament in St. Lucia.
During the 1980s, Ian, as referred to by many of his contemporaries, became well-known for his television appearances, hosting regular raffles, and offering attractive prizes.
Many regarded Ian Slack as a very friendly and easy-going individual who was also dedicated to his Catholic Church and community, especially as a member of the St. Kitts Rotary Club, in which he was a very active member.
He leaves to mourn his children and wife, Yvette, who also has been recognized for her contribution to nation-building and education, through her popular Slack Pre-School, which operated from 1982-2014.
Slack is believed to have been 84 years old.
Main Photo: Ian Slack with one of his daughters, Ruth.