The Jamaica tourism industry is mourning today over the passing of Bernard Rickman, a 20-year veteran of the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB).

Rickman passed away on Tuesday, October 19 at Strathroy Hospital, according to his obituary.

Rickman, who was born in London, Ontario, first joined the JTB in 1969 as a local sales representative. He quickly climbed the ranks, first being promoted to assistant sales manager and later becoming the board’s Regional Manager for Canada.

In 1991, Rickman was appointed Deputy Director of Tourism, Overseas Administration and Finance and later served as Deputy Director of Tourism, Overseas Administration until he left the board in 1992.

Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett has offered his condolences to Rickman’s family and friends on behalf of the Ministry of Tourism Jamaica and its agencies.

According to Bartlett,“ Rickman played an integral role in building Jamaica’s tourism product in the Canadian market throughout his long-time post with the JTB, and his contributions are a testament to his professional character and his unwavering support of the destination.”

For his part, JTB Chairman, John Lynch remarked, “The successes that Destination Jamaica continues to build on are directly connected to the unstinting service and dedication of public servants like Rickman. We appreciate his sterling work that has contributed to the solid legacy of the Jamaica Tourist Board.”

Donovan White, Jamaica’s Director of Tourism also paid tribute to Rickman’s career contributions saying, “Rickman proved his commitment to excellence and provided invaluable input to the overall development of the Board. We appreciate all his efforts and contributions as he built a professional legacy.”

Rickman is survived by his wife Rosie Rickman, his five children, four grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.