Tribute to Wim van der Leegte

In the Vrijstraat in Eindhoven, a unique illuminated portrait of Wim van der Leegte, the former VDL top executive who passed away last year, shines brightly. This artwork was created as a tribute to his significant contributions to the Light Route and his meaningful role as a regional employer with a social heart.

For over ten years, Wim van der Leegte was a dedicated member of the Light Route’s recommendation committee, where he passionately worked as an ambassador to raise awareness of the foundation. He was also a beloved figure in Eindhoven, leading VDL for an impressive 44 years with a warm and committed vision. His son, Willem van der Leegte, the current CEO of VDL, has proudly taken over his father’s role in the Light Route’s recommendation committee.

This illuminated tribute ensures that the memory of Wim van der Leegte lives on in a special and lasting way in the heart of Eindhoven. The initiative for this tribute came from Ivo Baijens, chairman of the Light Route, and Ronald Ramakers, director of GLOW.