Ashih Tekleab Haile

Marie Louise Galea writes:

Ashih Tekleab Haile, who we always referred to as Asha, was a very special man. Those who knew him will never forget his radiant smile. He was always polite and courteous: his good morning, good day, please and thank you never failed. There was nothing one would ask him to do that he would not do, or volunteer to do! If he had difficulty he would always find a suitable alternative, but never leave a job undone. He willingly moved from one department to another: be it maintenance, cleaning, in the beach or by the pool. He was always reliable...definitely an all rounder.

Asha never seemed to have the bad days we all occasionally have. He was friends with everyone and never entered into any arguments with his colleagues. There was never a day when he was sulking. The only time I remember him sad was when the hotel management decided to close down the hotel for the winter season.

All this led to the shock we all received when news reached us of his tragic accident at the same workplace he loved so much. His enthusiasm the previous Monday when he got news of possible repatriation to the US had been shattered. His smiling face will just be a memory in our minds. That day, Paradise Bay turned into a graveyard; everyone, management, staff and guests were devastated.

The Paradise Diving School, situated just close to where Asha was working, were also shocked with the news. They had closed down early due to the high seas. Had they been there the situation might have been different. But the Lord had other plans for Asha. He was called to receive his reward after going through much turmoil before arriving on a dinghy on this small island surrounded by sea.

Asha we will never forget you. To his wife Tina, his family and friends our deep condolences. We shall always remember what a lovely couple you were. How you would impress us all when, every day before lunch, you would sit down and pray. No wonder you were always so peaceful.

Alison Micallef Brennan from Paradise Diving School is accepting donations for his wife and family. Tourists who knew Asha during the past months at Paradise Bay have already sent monies via paypal to noel@paradiving.com. If you knew him and wish to help, thank you in advance.