Randburg Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) has sent its condolences to the family of energy expert Ted Blom and calls his death ‘a sad loss for the country’.

Blom’s family yesterday took to social media to announce his passing at the age of 64. “As a man of honour, dignity and strong principles, he dedicated his life to both loving his family and the fight against corruption in South Africa,” the family’s statement reads.

“He was a great father filled with love for his wife and children, always providing and protecting. He always persevered through challenges, fighting cancer for a number of years.”

It was his integrity and love for South Africa that saw him speak his mind, RCCI CEO Linda Blackbeard says.

“Ted was always willing to share his honest opinion with regard to the energy sector. I was very fond of him and had a great deal of respect for him,” she adds.

“He may not have been everyone’s cup of tea, but his straight down-the-line, honest comments whenever I asked him something is what I will miss the most. It wasn’t easy for him towards the end. He fought a tough battle and is now at peace. The chamber will miss you Ted. Rest in peace.”

The memorial service will be at Rosebank Union Church in Hurlingham on May 13. Those with queries can contact Blom’s son Edward on 061 531 5928.