ABU DHABI // The general manager of the St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort has been killed in a car crash.
John Pelling, a 52-year-old father of two, was remembered yesterday at the hotel following his cremation in Al Ain. "John's passion, energy and enthusiasm will be greatly missed," stated the invitation to his memorial, calling him a "leader, coach, mentor and friend".
Mr Pelling, from Britain, died in a crash on April 25.
He joined the hotel in 2010, a year before it opened, to oversee its launch, and was responsible for everything from marketing to selecting many of its fine fittings.
The hotel opened in 2011 with 377 rooms, five swimming pools, a 3,000-square-metre ballroom and seven restaurants.
Mr Pelling is survived by his wife, Fiona, and his children Amy and Charlie.
In lieu of flowers, his family requested donations go to the charity Operation Smile, a cause close to Mr Pelling's heart.