THE Linden business community was plunged into mourning on Wednesday with the passing of Stephen Bovell, a passionate, industrious and dedicated businessman. He suffered a heart attack.

Bovell was the owner of Demerara Bakery, located on Burnham Drive, Wismar, and a staunch member of the Linden Chamber of Commerce and Development.

He had survived five major heart bypasses and a major heart surgery in 1994, which was the motivating factor behind his establishing the bakery, not as a profit-making entity, but as a means of giving back to the community, in appreciation for spared life.

The bakery opened its doors in October 1995, and Bovell used that first month to freely distribute its products to the less fortunate. Though he was an electrical engineer by profession, and had no experience in baking, Bovell followed the voice in a dream which told him he should open up the bakery.

Since then, heíd focussed on community development and employment for Lindeners. He was also an advocate of community development, and played an integral role in the Linden Restoration Project.

He is described as heart-warming and generous. The President and members of the Linden Chamber of Industry Commerce and Development extend heartfelt condolences to his wife, children and other relatives and friends.