Waverley Blankets owner dies

Fidelis Munyoro Herald Reporter
Prominent industrialist and philanthropist, Mr Victor Cohen, has died.

He was 78. Mr Cohen, who owned Waverley Blankets (Pvt) Ltd, died on Monday at Sunning Hill Hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa, where he was receiving treatment for more than a week. Waverley administration manager Ms Doreen Eesson confirmed the death of Mr Cohen.

She said his condition had improved considerably, but deteriorated at the weekend. Ms Eesson expressed deep sorrow on the demise of her boss, saying Zimbabwe had lost a man committed to the development and transformation of the economy.

“He was a father figure, compassionate and did everything possible for each and every worker at this company.

“He is going to be sorely missed by all of us here. As an industrialist, Mr Cohen had ambition to expand his business and to always create employment for many people.” Ms Eesson said Mr Cohen was also a renowned philanthropist.

“He was patron of Sharon Cohen Zimcare in Chitungwiza, where he takes care of 98 mentally challenged children,” she said. Mr Cohen’s eldest son Glynn, also expressed sadness on the death of his father. “What a loss, what an amazing person he was, an outstanding boss, dedicated father and grandfather,” he said.

Mr Cohen established Waverley Blankets (Pvt) Ltd in 1995.

Since then, the company has grown to become the leading manufacturer of blankets and bedding accessories in the country. The company also operates retail shops in other cities, including Bulawayo and Mutare. Burial will take place at the Jewish Cemetery, Warren Hills on Thursday.