We here at Autoblog want to pass along our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Jan-Willem Vester who passed away last night. Until last spring, Jan-Willem was the communications manager for Saab USA. In that role, the amiable Dutchman was always extremely helpful and prompt in answering our queries about Saab's products and business.

Beyond being a great PR guy, Vester was a singularly wonderful advocate for the troubled brand, and we had hoped he would find a prominent position with the Swedish automaker should it ever find a new owner. He wasn't just a hired gun, but a true longtime fan, owning an older 900 back in the Netherlands and new 9-5 Sportcombi for carting around the family. In recent months, Vester had been fighting an inoperable brain tumor to which he finally succumbed.

Jan-Willem is survived by his wife Mariska and their three children.