In Loving Memory of Ilmar Island Sr.

Tribute to the life and times of Ilmar Wassar Island (Saar). War hero, French Foreign Legionnaire, businessman, administrator and loving father. Born in 1918 in Tartu, Estonia. Eventually wearing four uniforms during World War II, fought against Rommel in North Africa to become a liberator of France. Met his wife Olime-Angela Roog (Estonian) in Paris after the war then emigrated to Venezuela to establish a new life on a virgin continent and fathered two sons, Jacques and Ilmar Jr. Worked his way from mechanic to senior vice president of Aco, an automotive conglomerate and became president of many of its subsidiaries (As an interesting side note, while heading Auto Llanos in Barinas he employed a young Hugo Chavez as deliver boy). Eventually divorced and remarried Virve Mundi (Estonian Venezuelan) 30-years later and retired to Florida where he died in 2009.

Music is "Homecoming" by Elevation Express.

Category:

People & Blogs

Tags:

• Ilmar
• Wassar
• Island
• Saar
• ilmar Island
• Family pictures
• Tartu
• Estonia
• Paris
• France
• Rommel
• North Africa
• Venezuela
• Florida
• Free French
• Hugo Chavez
• Caracas
• Tallinn
• Miami
• Syria
• Egypt
• Memorial

[firewalker4truth]

Ilmar, thank you for sharing the photo movie of your father and family. I now understand your strong connection with Estonia and your love of adventure and travel. Your father must have been an incredible man having joined the French Foreign Legion, U.S. Airforce, etc. Your talent shows by making this movie tribute to your father. I'm sure your dad would be proud. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Many blessings. Your friend, Ojela

[carmennovia]

This was put together with a kind eye. Very nice. Very sorry for your loss, for you and Jacque and your nephew.

[luvslulu]

Ilmar..This is wonderful tribute to your father! I see so much of you in him..I didnt realize it until now...and what a brilliant life he lead! Be proud, Immy,be proud. He would have been just as proud of you for doing this as he was of being your Dad! I think you for sharing this with me.

I,too, wish you peace.

Much love,

Penny

[sodus426]

Dear Ilmar, what a wonderful tribute your Dad. Very well done. When I see his photos I see you, your features, your stance, and the glint in your eye. Thank for sharing, I wish you peace.

Mary b