Blues fan had 'heart of gold'

Peter Jongenelen was living his dream when he ran the Belgian Bar on Arawa St. Photo / FIle

Peter Jongenelen was the man with the mo, the hat and the fast walk who had a passion for live music like no other.

The hospitality icon who owned the former Belgian Bar in Rotorua died at the weekend at the age of 61.

Mr Jongenelen was a founding member of the Bay of Plenty Blues Club and also helped run the Blues Feast events in Rotorua over five years.

Mr Jongenelen was diagnosed with cancer a year ago, and while he came through treatment, he experienced complications a month ago. He died at his home on Pukuatua St.

Anita Loderus said her long-time Dutch-born friend had a real passion for musicians and anyone with talent.

He owned the Belgian Bar since 2004 and during its hey day when it was the home of the blues club. The bar was forced to close in June last year due to tough economic times. The bar had musical equipment permanently set up on stage and was the home of live music most weeks.

"He had a huge respect for musicians and would open his doors."

She said he never really let go of the Belgian Bar.

"When he had to close the Belgian Bar it had a huge impact on him that he never really got over. He loved it so much.

"He was one of those characters whose hospitality was always to open and he always made you feel welcome. He loved hospitality and he loved people. He wanted to bring music to people and had big dreams."

Ms Loderus said he was an icon of Rotorua.

"How could you not call him [an icon]? He was the guy with the mo, the hat and the fast walk ... he had a strong, unique personality."

One of his best friends and fellow blues club founding member, Noel Lamberton, said Mr Jongenelen was an advocate for the blues club and all music.

"He was such a supporter of live music ... He had a heart of gold and I'm really going to miss him. I had a feeling something wasn't right last week when he didn't reply to my texts and when I saw Anita calling me the other night, I just knew it was Peter."

Mr Jongenelen is survived by his son and daughter and a grandchild.

Details about a celebration of his life are to be advised.