It is with profound sadness that Onboard Hospitality magazine shares the news of Jons Hensel’s passing on July 25. Jons was a respected and active member of the onboard hospitality industry for over five decades.
He was a pioneer and esteemed leader within our industry, serving as the Chief Commercial Officer of deSter and founding Helios.
Jons’ passion, vision and humanity impressed everyone who had the privilege of working with him. His many contributions helped shape our sector and his presence will be missed.
Outside of the industry, Jons advised the Biblioteca Philosophica Hermetica, played a role in the founding of the Euro Hockey League and was a knight of the Order of Orange-Nassau.
Jons served as Chairman of Stichting het Wereldhart (The Worldheart Foundation), which has created an online memorial page. In a post celebrating his character, The Worldheart Foundation team said: “Wherever he was and whoever he was with, he brought the sun with him. Jons was a true visionary, full of energy, humanity, and connection – someone who led by the heart.”
Numerous heartfelt tributes were also shared on LinkedIn.
The feed of deSter included the following reflection on his positive mindset: “He believed that nothing is fixed. That far more is possible than most organizations assume. That people who dare to think bigger will get further. He placed that belief in the people around him, which is where it continues to have an effect.”
We Are RBLS, the creative agency that Jons co-founded, commented: “He was a visionary, a mentor, and an extraordinary human being who believed that nothing was impossible. He had a rare gift for bringing people together, turning bold ideas into reality, and inspiring everyone around him to dream bigger, think differently, and create meaningful change.”
The tribute of gategroup included: “The impact he made reaches far beyond the projects he helped shape. It lives on through the relationships he built, the people he inspired, and the lasting impression he left on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
The team at Onboard Hospitality magazine is particularly saddened by Jon’s passing.
Sue Williams, Publisher of Onboard Hospitality, says: “It was an honour to have known Jons for the past 30 years and work with him on various ideas and projects. He never stopped thinking out of the box and encouraging those around him to do the same. Our industry will not be the same without him, his passion, his contagious smile and laughter. Missing you already, Jons.”
Our heartfelt thoughts and condolences go to his family, friends and colleagues.
