Cold Link Africa September 2024 | Page 19

On each of his visits to South Africa , he always gained greater respect as an international icon in refrigeration and as a gentleman .
BUSINESS AND TRAINING
INCORPORATING COLD CHAIN
By the early 1980s , Germany faced challenges with nuclear power and energy policy shifts , impacting businesses like Dobelin ' s that specialised in energy-intensive technologies such as heat pumps . Regulatory restrictions and periodic shutdowns posed operational challenges , prompting the Dobelins to seek new horizons . Choosing South Africa over other potential destinations like Australia was influenced by several factors . South Africa offered a burgeoning market with opportunities in HVAC & R technologies , especially given its diverse climate and growing urbanisation . The Dobelins saw this as a fertile ground to apply their expertise in heat pump systems and expand their business ventures .
Upon arrival in South Africa around 1982 , the Dobelins began establishing
connections and exploring business opportunities in the local market . Their expertise in innovative HVAC & R solutions quickly garnered attention , particularly in sectors where energy efficiency and environmental sustainability was becoming increasingly important .
Dobelin found herself needing to work due to financial constraints while settling into a new country , leading her to take on various roles while adapting to the local environment . She began working in the office at a German company involved in installing cleaning processes for tanks and plants , a role that required her to familiarise herself with local practices - and improve her English skills ( neither could speak English ). Her MBA qualification and her capability in financial matters quickly
impressed management , demonstrating her adeptness in handling complex tasks .
Peter eventually transitioned to working at National Dairy Equipment , specialising in ammonia refrigeration plants . Dobelin ' s daughter Susan also started working during this period , marking a new phase as their family adapted to life and work in South Africa .
Her career took a significant turn when she joined Robert Bosch SA ( Pty ) Ltd , where she played a pivotal role in establishing a training school and the Bosch Service Organisation , leveraging her background in education and administration . This opportunity not only highlighted her organisational skills but also cemented her reputation as a capable professional in the industry . CLA
In a small company environment , her involvement extended across various tasks , highlighting her adaptability and commitment to their shared vision .

In memory : Dr Forbes Pearson By John Ackermann

On each of his visits to South Africa , he always gained greater respect as an international icon in refrigeration and as a gentleman .

As a humble and thorough gentleman , Dr Forbes Pearson was ever ready to share is expertise in the many applications of refrigeration , in particular industrial and ammonia systems . He would listen carefully and then add his advice based on his educational background , research , and years of practical experience with utmost respect for others and often , with a broad smile on his face .

Although small in stature , he was the gentle giant among his peers in any gathering centred around refrigeration . Being in his presence among his peers , my admiration and respect of his character and knowledge never failed to deepen .
The legacy of Dr Forbes Pearson will continue for decades as his sons follow in his large footsteps and the many committed staff at Star Refrigeration in Glasgow who
continue along the path towards innovative refrigeration technologies .
My deepest sympathy to all his family and his son , Dr Andy Pearson of whom I have fond memories and the highest respect .
May Dr Forbes Pearson rest in peace after a long rewarding earthly journey , which has left the world a much better place . CLA
Supplied by
Dr Forbes Pearson at Chillventa in 2008 .

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