Willem de Bakker †

When our HT-PROGRES was incorporated into the Bodycote structure, Willem was one of the first people I came into contact with. Within CEG (Central European Group) he was responsible for reporting and planning. He got the nickname “table tycoon” from me. His ability to use Excel as a data collection or planning tool was admirable.

We spent many years together with unforgettable experiences. In the days when Jan Elwart and John Hubbard were at the head of our affairs, this was quite common. They both had the skills of team builders.

A few photos are a good example of this. The news that Willem was dead hit me all the more. One of the other icons of my life is no longer with us.

So Wiilem, have a great time there, I think most of us will keep you in our hearts as you were, smiling, friendly, inquisitive, but always completely fair

2005, Toronto, Management Annual meeting

2006, Brno, Greenfield inauguration

2006, Bad Neuenahr, Sales meeting, Ring hotel

2007, Los Angeles, Management Annual meeting

Jiří Stanislav

29. října  2023