The shipping industry has bid one of its legends a final goodbye with the passing of Ronald George Sellick at the age of 89. A former major in military intelligence in the Middle East during the Second World War, Ron was a formidable character who will be sorely missed by family, friends and colleagues. Ron was born in London in 1920 where he grew up. After serving in His Majesty’s forces from 1939 to 1948 he emigrated to South Africa where he joined the Grindrod Group via Smiths Coasters in 1957 as Shipping Manager. He held various positions in the group before being appointed managing director, a position he held until his retirement in 1986. But, much like the proverbial good man, Ron could not be kept down and he soon rejoined the group as an assistant to John Jones until he finally did retire in 2003. During this period he was almost singlehandedly responsible for the supervision of the refurbishment of Quadrant House, the Grindrod headquarters. Described as a colourful and influential personality in local shipping, he will mostly be remembered for his “do it right” attitude and never waning enthusiasm. Ron was, however, much more than just a shipping legend – for almost 40 years he was actively involved with the Durban and District Child Welfare, where his business expertise, compassion and commitment will be missed. Ron was also very involved with the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry of which he was made a life member and was the first chairman of the Durban Port Liaison Committee and, together with David Witherspoon, helped establish the Business Watch Association. Ron is survived by his wife, Frosso.
