Karl Stagno-Navarra Local broadcast media is in shock at the untimely death of Vibe FM co-partner and popular deejay Justin Chircop, who passed away late Monday evening at Mater Dei Hospital at the age of 32.
His death has been attributed to complications arising from the AH1N1 virus, otherwise known as swine flu. Justin, who was father to three year-old Sarah, was remembered yesterday by colleagues and friends in a litany of messages that were exchanged on his Facebook page, while NET TV paid tribute to him as a former visual editor of the station.
Described by all as a radiant character, Justin Chircop will be missed for his flair for life and outstanding work ethic.
Contacted by MaltaToday, TV producer Jordan Degiorgio described Justin as “the sun,” adding that “he was bright (both intellectually and physically), his face oozed positivity and sincerity. He was a great team player, constantly pushing his fellow colleagues with his great motivational skills and incredulous enthusiasm, all was achievable in his world. His perfectionist ways were always present, he always strived to make something already close to perfect even better though his gentle and warm ways. He was a true friend, a gentleman, an admirable human being.”
Business partner and colleague Gianni Zammit described Justin Chircop as a “great guy” and added that “more than a business partner at Vibe FM for the past eight months, Justin was a real buddy. I will surely miss him,” he said.
TV producer and former colleague Anouschka Grech saluted Justin’s memory by describing him as “a hard worker who knew how not to make a big deal even when under extreme pressure.”
A University graduate, Justin Chircop married Isabel in October 2003 and although he was popular, he never sought the limelight.
Presenter and former head of news at Net TV Mario Xuereb, explained that he worked with Justin for the best of four years. “At the time he formed part of the news video editors team at Net News and naturally we worked hand in hand on countless stories and features. He learnt really fast and was always on the lookout to achieve more and reach higher targets.
“This explains his move into sales and very recently his newest project, that of setting up Malta’s newest radio station which is after all his baby. On a personal level, he was one of the kindest and jolliest persons to have around. As the saying goes, only the good die young!” he said.
Another former colleague, journalist and head of news at NET TV Nathaniel Attard expressed shock at the news of Justin’s demise and recalled his “perpetual smile”.
“Justin always had a positive attitude to work and he excelled when he worked as a visual editor for Net News during the EU referendum and subsequent general election in 2003.”
While tributes to Justin continued to be uploaded on his Facebook page, Justin Chircop’s family have expressed gratitude to all for their kind words and support at this very difficult moment for them.
A simple browse through google search engine on the internet would immediately upload a few phrases written by Justin on a profile.
When asked he replied : What is the best news you’ve ever received? “She’s got 10 fingers and 10 toes!’’ Describe yourself in three words? Fortunate, big and friendly.
Justin Chircop’s funeral will be held tomorrow Thursday. A cortege will leave Mater Dei Hospital at 9am, followed by mass praesente cadavere at St. Theresa’s Church in Birkirkara at 9.30am. Burial will take place at the family tomb at the Addolorata Cemetery.
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Justin, who was father to three year-old Sarah, was remembered yesterday by colleagues and friends in a litany of messages that were exchanged on his Facebook page, while NET TV paid tribute to him as a former visual editor of the station.
