Walter Ulz, head chef of Joburg institute Linger Longer, died suddenly on Sunday 14th August.
Ulz was a very much admired and loved figure in the South African restaurant industry. He was at the helm at Linger Longer from 1976 until his untimely death on the 14 August 2011.
Close friend and fellow restaurateur Ben Filmalter had this to say over the sad news: “Indeed yesterday was perhaps the toughest day of my life, saying a sudden farewell to a dear friend and closing the doors of a restaurant, that he shall forever be associated with and I having had the privilege of working alongside him in building the fine reputation the restaurant has enjoyed for the last 50 years.
“Walter will be remembered for his larger than life personality; his caring and thoughtful manner to his family, friends, staff and his cutomers. A man of many contrasts, tough yet tender and caring, large hands that had a such a delicate touch; an innovator yet a traditionalist at heart, spontaneous yet thoughtful.
“There’ll never be another Walter!!”
RIP Walter Ulz, mentor and friend to many.