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WFA is saddened to report the passing of two prominent industry members in July, Justin Ward of InVogue Blinds and Sharon Habib from Sharon’s Curtains and Blinds and NBS.
Justin Thomas Ward was described at his memorial as a charismatic entrepreneurial and sensitive spirit who touched many people’s lives with his generosity, humour and friendship.
His memorial was held at the MCG Long Room with around 400 attendees. Justin was well known and liked in the Melbourne Window Covering Industry and in Melbourne society in general.
Peter Meyer attended the memorial on behalf of Blinds By Peter Meyer and the Blind Manufacturers Association of Australia (BMAA) and said the large gathering and location was fitting.
“We were addressed by a number of Justin’s family and friends and treated to a musical and photographic interlude.”
“It became apparent that there were many sides to Justin. A larrikin, a leader, a teacher, a spiritual follower of Buddism and an amazing, loyal friend to his many friends, as was attested to by speaker after speaker.”
“Habitually late, a breaker of rules and incredibly generous, a keen surfer, a lover of red wine and I believe a great wielder of barbeque tongs.”
“A loving husband and father, brother, uncle, son in law, brother in law and godfather. There were many sides to Justin.”
A remembrance ceremony was held for Sharon Habib at the St Marina Coptic Orthodox Church on Monday 11 July.
Sharon was a founding director and key driving force behind multiple businesses including National Blind Suppliers.
“She started with one sewing machine and led her three sons to build one of the leading blind and curtain manufacturers in Australia,” the family said in a message sent to customers.
“But more than that, she was a sweet, generous and kind woman to her family and friends.”
“She was well known for helping immigrants and refugees from Syria and Lebanon and made things easier for them to settle in Australia.”
“Her dedication and contribution to the Syrian orthodox community, the royal children’s hospital and other charities will also be remembered forever.”
Sharon was survived by her children Francois, Bruce, Jack, Peggy and Lillian.
