Cayman society is mourning the passing of Robert Hamaty, one of its much-loved adopted sons and business stalwart.
Mr Hamaty's passing was announced in a press release from the Tortuga Rum Company, the world-famous brand which he founded in the Cayman Islands.
“We are deeply saddened to report, on the morning of the 13th of June at Miami Baptist Health Center, Robert Hamaty passed away peacefully,” the solemn announcement said.
“Mr Hamaty was a well-known public figure across The Cayman Islands and worldwide.
“The founder and owner of Tortuga Rum Company, he was known for Cayman’s largest export, Tortuga Rum cakes and iconic store fronts across The Cayman Islands amongst many other things.”
The Jamaica-born former airline captain set up Tortuga in 1984. He was a captain with the then Air Jamaica before joining Cayman Airways in 1978 in a similar role.
Robbie, as he was affectionately known, had to give up flying on medical grounds but then turned his full attention to his Tortuga brand of rum, cakes, sauces and coffee.
It earned him - and Cayman - worldwide recognition.
A 42 year resident of Cayman, Mr Hamaty was appointed as Jamaica’s honorary consul here in 1992, a position he held until 2009.
Deeply loved and respected in both his birthplace and his adopted home, Mr Hamaty will be sorely missed by family and friends. The management of Caymanian Times extends deepest condolences to Mr Hamaty’s family and staff.
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