Kristian Eidesvik, founder and former chairman of shipping company Wilson ASA, passed away at the age of 78 following a period of illness.

Kristian Eidesvik became an owner in Wilson around 1995. Following the IPO in 2005, he became the majority owner through his investment company Caiano AS, and he was the Chairman of the Board until two years ago. His son Eivind Eidesvik is now the chairman of Wilson.

Kristian’s background was from Langevåg, Bømlo. His roots were in fishing, and he always proudly referred to himself as a fisherman.

As the owner of Wilson, Kristian Eidesvik developed a strong attachment to the company and a genuine interest in running a successful business. Despite the challenging times following the 2008 financial crisis, he maintained a positive and supportive outlook, backing Wilson’s initiatives for growth and expansion, which were essential in establishing Wilson as a leading company in its segment.

“We will remember Kristian with gratitude for all he was, as a person, as a supportive owner and as long-serving Chairman of the Board,” managing director Øyvind Gjerde said on behalf of the company.