Eddy Li, renowned Hong Kong watchmaking tycoon, dies aged 69
Li, also a former president of the Chinese Manufacturers’ Association, founded Campell Group in 1989. He later expanded the watch business to various sectors across real estate, finance and antiques.
He was awarded Hong Kong’s top honour, the Gold Bauhinia Star, in 2017 and had been appointed as a Justice of the Peace since 2012.
He had served on a number of public bodies, including the Hong Kong Trade Advisory Committee from 1995 to 2000, and was a former member of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference.
Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu on Tuesday expressed his “deep condolences” on the sudden death of Li, saying it was a “great loss” to Hong Kong society.
“Dr Li and I went way back. He was a successful leader in industry and an outstanding industrialist who drove the city’s business industry forward,” he said.
‘Eat healthy, sleep well’: Chinese romance novelist dead at 29 bids farewell
Government officials, including Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Kevin Yeung Yun-hung and Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn Hon-ho, also paid tribute to Li.
The Chinese Manufacturers’ Association thanked Li for his contribution to industry and said members “felt sorry” for losing a talented leader.
Li’s family members expressed their “deep appreciation” to those who sent their regards and care during the time Li was hospitalised.
“The family also take this opportunity to express their sincere gratitude to leaders of different sectors of society for the immense support and invaluable advice which they have rendered over the years to Dr Li in the pursuit of his career and his involvement in public service,” they said.
They added that funeral arrangements would be confirmed in due course.
In a speech at Lingnan University in 2016 when he was conferred an honorary fellowship, he said he held Hong Kong dear to his heart because it was where he built his career from scratch.
“My humble background motivated me to work even harder,” he said. “In those trying times, I deeply understood that we should make the most of our limited time in this world and do more for ourselves and society.”