Thorvald Pettersson is a Swedish businessman who was married to Tina Joemat-Pettersson, a South African politician who served as Chair of the Police Portfolio Committee until her death in June 2023.
He was a supportive and loving husband and father who preferred to live a private life and did not get involved in politics. He passed away in 2006 at the age of 47.
Early life
Thorvald Pettersson was born in 1959 in Sweden. He grew up in a middle-class family and attended a public school.
From a young age, he was interested in business and entrepreneurship and founded his own company after graduating from university.
He specializes in importing and exporting goods between Sweden and other countries, especially in Africa.
Married to Tina Pettersson
Thorvald Pettersson met Tina Joemat-Pettersson in 1989 while doing business in South Africa.
They fell in love and married in 1991 in a traditional ceremony in Upington, Tina’s hometown. They had a happy and harmonious marriage that lasted 15 years until Thorvald’s death.
Thorvald respects and supports Tina’s political career, and helps her balance work and family life. He also absorbed Tina’s culture and learned to speak Afrikaans and several local languages.
Thorvald had no other partners or ex-partners before or during his marriage to Tina.
Children
Thorvald and Tina have two sons, Austin and Terrence, born in 1992 and 1994, respectively.
Thorvald was a devoted and thoughtful father who spent quality time with his children and taught them about his Swedish heritage and values.
He also encouraged them to pursue their studies and interests. Austin and Terrence inherited their father’s business acumen and entrepreneurial spirit and have now become successful entrepreneurs in their own right.
Career
Thorvald Pettersson is a successful businessman who owns and operates his own company specializing in international trade.
He has a keen eye for opportunities and risks and is able to establish and maintain good relationships with his customers and partners.
He also has a social conscience and is involved in many charitable and humanitarian projects in Africa, especially in South Africa.
He donated money and goods to schools, hospitals, orphanages and other organizations to help the poor and disadvantaged.
He also recruited and trained many local people and contributed to the economic development of the region.
Heritage
Thorvald Pettersson left behind a lasting legacy of love, generosity and integrity. He was a faithful and loyal husband who loved his wife unconditionally and supported her in her political endeavors.
He was a wonderful and inspiring father who raised his sons to be responsible and compassionate men.
He is a visionary and philanthropic businessman who has positively impacted the lives of many people and communities in Africa.
He was a modest and private person who did not seek fame or recognition for his achievements. His family, friends, colleagues and associates all admire and respect him.
Death
Thorvald Pettersson died in 2006 at the age of 47. He had a heart attack while on business in Nigeria.
He was taken to the hospital but could not be saved. His death was a shock and a tragedy for his family and loved ones.
He was buried in his native Sweden in a private funeral attended by relatives and close friends.
His wife Tina and sons Austin and Terrence flew to Sweden to pay their respects and say their final goodbyes. Many who knew and appreciated him mourned and remembered him.
Net value
Thorvald Pettersson has amassed an estimated net worth of $5 million.
