There was standing room only at Igreja do Sao Laurenco on Monday 28 January; the streets outside were crowded with hundreds of friends and admirers of the late Michael Apolonia Johannes Bastiaanse. And there was not a dry eye anywhere as well-wishers queued to pay their respects and bid Michael a final farewell.
Michael was born in Holland and his career at the top level of hotel management took him to the UK, to Germany, Belgium, the USA, and China. In China, and in charge of a new luxury hotel in Chengdu, he met Sonja, the love of his life, who he went on to marry.
Some 20 years ago, Michael and Sonja made the decision to make the Algarve their home. Here Michael moved into a new, challenging role, that as General Manager of the Four Seasons Fairways, which he built from small beginnings into one of the key developments in Quinta do Lago.
Michael was a larger-than-life character, with time for everyone and an interest in everything. His laugh was loud, his enthusiasm knew no bounds – be it for gardening, cycling (a 100km ride, as a member of a cycling group was nothing to him), or sharing life and his passions with his many, many friends. Michael touched everyone, and left a never-to-be- forgotten impression on their lives. Together with his wife Sonja , they were the golden couple.
The world will be quieter place without Michael. We thank him for his love, his friendship, and his many kindnesses.
Comments
My sincere condolences
31 years ago I was working already at the Holiday Inn Crowne Plaza Amsterdam City Centre, where Michael became the 2nd GM in charge of giving the new hotel a boost and to get it on the Map. My memories have always being very positive on Michael. I saw a great team leader very sales minded, taking care of the guests
I remember one day, we had "John Denver" staying in the hotel, and they went went out together going to play a round of Golf.
Everything to make the guest happy.
I will keep happy thoughts on him.
Wishing you all the best and strength
Oh meisje, wat een verlies. Het is 9 jaar gelesen dat Ralph is overleden. Denk aan fijne Uren en dagen due wij gezamelijk hadden. Grote Umarmung. Denk aan je.
Agnita
Our heartfelt love for Sonja who has lost her soulmate. RIP Michael.