By Chris Nicholls
SYDNEY: New South Wales electrical retailer Bing Lee’s chairman and co-founder Ken Lee passed away this morning at St. Vincent’s Private Hospital after a short illness. He was 75.
Born in 1933, Ken Lee took over the business in 1987, following his father’s passing. He featured regularly in the company’s commercials and became synonymous with the catchphrase “Come meet my team”.
He was apparently known for his fastidiousness, down to ensuring Bing Lee shop signs were always kept clean.
Bing Lee celebrated its 50th anniversary this year. Sales also topped a record with close to $400 million in turnover (excluding GST).
Ken Lee was a long time supporter of the Victor Chang Foundation, and was elected a life member this year.
Ken Lee leaves his wife, Yenda and two sons, Lionel and Greg, Lionel will take over as the company’s chief executive.
“Lionel has been groomed for the role over many years and it is business as usual,” said a company spokesperson,
“While Ken will be sadly missed, the company has a strong and stable management structure with positive growth forecasts for 2008 and beyond.”