Salim Tass remembered as family man, hard worker of Menai post office

Salim Tass is being remembered as a “kind, generous” man who dedicated his life to Australia Post for 26 years. Read his daughter’s touching tribute.

A stalwart of the Menai shopping community is being remembered as a devoted business owner and family man after he tragically passed away.Salim Tass, 60, was the licensee of the Australia Post store in Menai Marketplace for 10 years.In August the Panania resident was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and died on Sunday.His heartbroken family are devastated but are comforted his was no longer suffering. Picture: Supplied

A stalwart of the Menai community is being remembered as a devoted business owner and family man after he tragically passed away.

Salim Tass, the licensee of the Australia Post store in Menai Marketplace for 10 years, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in August and died on Sunday.

The 60-year-old’s heartbroken family are devastated but is comforted he was no longer suffering.

Mr Tass’ daughter Cynthia Leoneollo said her father’s legacy would live on through his store and family.

“Dad was a giving and loving person who always put other people before himself,” she said.

Salim Tass loved helping customers in the store. Picture: Supplied

“He devoted 26 years of his life to Australia Post, for many years in Petersham, then for the past 10 years in Menai.

“It was his passion Monday to Saturday and even on Sundays.”

Mrs Leoneollo said Mr Tass’ favourite part about his work was building relationships with customers.

“Dad also made many strong relationships with other shopkeepers around Menai,” she said.

Mrs Leoneollo said her father was not intimidated by the changes required to maintain a thriving post office business over the years, and his son Julian helped him adjust to new technologies.

“He was willing to do whatever it took,” she said.

“Dad was born in Lebanon and came from nothing. He came to Australia when he was about 30 and built his life and family here.”

The Panania man was devoted to his loving family. Picture: Supplied

Several family members worked with Mr Tass, including his wife Jeanette for 26 years.

Mr Tass’ brother and sister-in-law worked at Petersham before taking over the business allowing Mr Tass to work at Menai.

Mrs Leoneollo said when her father was not working, he enjoyed taking the pet dog on a walk and otherwise spent his time surrounded by family and friends.

“Dad loved dancing,” she said. “Every time we were at a wedding or function, he would be the first one to get up and dance.

Mr Tass worked for Australia Post for 26 years. Picture: Supplied

“He also was thrilled to become a grandfather for the first time six months ago. Towards the end of his life, he spent a lot of time with Liana and they had a special bond.

“Dad will be remembered for devoting his life to customers, the community and his family.

“He loved helping people. He was a kind person and would always see the best in people. He never had any bitterness or anger.”

Mrs Tass, along with her children Julian and Cynthia and their partners Phillis and Christopher invite those who knew Mr Tass to the funeral on Saturday, November 26 at St Nicholas Antiochian Orthodox Church at 8.30am.