A great citizen passes on

The National National
CS pall bearers carrying the casket of late Jacob Luke into the Sir Ignatius Kilage Stadium in Lae, Morobe, for his funeral yesterday.

By BRADLEY MARIORI
MAPAI Transport Limited owner Jacob Sole Luke has been described as a great citizen who contributed immensely to the country.
During his funeral service held at the Sir Ignatius Kilage stadium yesterday, Robert Leso, who authored three books about Luke’s life, said he passed away last week at the very place he was born.
Luke, 59, was described as a man who was always open to new ideas, and an innovative industry leader.
Governor-General Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae said Luke was a unique individual who from humble beginnings started and built his business into a successful empire.
“Luke is proof that Papua New Guineans can start a business, manage it and build it into an empire,” Sir Bob said.
“His business now employs hundreds, if not thousands of people and has enabled many people to venture into business and private entrepreneurship.
“He was a businessman who also gave much to others and was well respected in the business community both here and abroad and a pillar to his people and community.”
His body will leave Lae today and overnight in Mt Hagen.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday at the Betel Church in Mt Hagen before departing for his Lakolam village in Enga for burial.