Global Fastener News

Scroll down below 2019 Obituaries for a link to previous obituaries or CLICK HERE.

2026

James “Jim” Rodney Anixter, 81, died June 30.
Anixter served as Executive VP of Anixter Brothers for 22 years before founding AZ Wire and Cable in 1988.
“To millions of baseball fans, however, Jim was simply ‘The Pink Hat Guy.’ His unmistakable bright pink baseball cap became one of the most recognizable sights at Cubs games and a beloved symbol of Wrigley Field.”
Over decades, his trademarked cap became an iconic symbol of Wrigley Field. He frequently used his fame to raise money for charity, handing out his custom pink hats in exchange for donations to the American Cancer Society.
Survivors include his wife, Lesley; sons Darren Anixter, Todd Anixter and Eric Anixter; and eight grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society and Jewish United Fund Chicago (JUF).

Robert “Bob” MacDonald, 82, died June 20 in Wakefield, RI, following a lengthy battle with cancer.
In 1989, he founded Mac Fasteners in Ottawa, KS, “starting in a small, run-down building with no heat or air conditioning and just five well-used machines—purchased with funds from his sons’ college savings accounts.”
Over the next 25 years, he built the company into a manufacturer of aerospace-standard screws and bolts produced from A286, 302 and 431 stainless steels, 4037, 8740, INCO-718, and other approved aerospace alloys. He sold Mac Fasteners to PennAero in 2014.
MacDonald is survived by Arlene, his wife of 58 years; sons John, Brian and Kevin; and seven grandchildren.

Barnhart Bolt & Special Fasteners founder Roger Gerald Barnhart, 88, died June 2 in Odessa, TX.
Born in Charleston, WV, he served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. After receiving an honorable discharge in 1974, Barnhart got his start in the fastener industry sweeping the floors at a stud bolt manufacturer in Beaumont, TX. Two years later, he moved to Odessa with his wife and 2 young sons to manage a fastener retail store in nearby Midland. In 1980, Barnhart opened Odessa Nut & Bolt with 2 partners, where he learned the Permian Basin boom/bust economy.
In 1993, he founded oilfield and industrial fasteners distributor Barnhart Bolt, initially employing himself, his wife, Teresa, and youngest son, Chad. His eldest son, Dax, soon joined the company, and remains company President/CEO.
Currently the company consists of four retail locations in Odessa, Midland, Hobbs, and El Reno, a corporate office in Odessa, and employs more than 80 people, including his grandson, Aaron Barnhart.
Outside of business, Barnhart loved his family and had a passion for fast cars.
Survivors include sons Dax Barnhart and Chad Barnhart; daughter Ashton Roberts; four grandchildren; one great grandson; and sisters Penny Barnhart and Cindy Corkran. He was preceded in death by his wife, Teresa Barnhart.
A celebration of life will be held June 12th at Shack in the Back in Odessa. The family asks that you wear blue in honor of his favorite color.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Harmony Home, Odessa Food Bank, Permian Basin Rehab Center, Tunnel to Towers or any hospice service.

William (Bill) Owens Bradley, 81, died April 1 due to complications from a stroke.
He attended the University of Colorado and the University of Minnesota before serving in the Coast Guard Reserve.
Bradley and his father, Leon Bradley, expanded Sheffield Incorporated into a multi-million dollar enterprise. In 1985, as chairman of Sheffield Inc., he negotiated the acquisition of the Kansas City-based fastener division of Armco Steel Corporation – then the 2nd largest facility in the world, with 300 machines in six buildings. Subsequently he completed a joint venture agreement with CITIC (Chinese International Trust & Investment Corp) and the government of China to relocate the facility. At the time, it was one of the largest joint ventures China had taken with the free world.
Survivors include his wife of 49 years, Susan.

Thomas “Tom” Robinson, 77, died March 12 in Downers Grove, IL.
He worked for 50 years at AFI Industries, where he began as a headerman and rose to the position of VP of Manufacturing.
“Tom was known for his humor and loyalty. He had a deep love for animals and an unwavering devotion to those he held dear,” the National Fastener Distributors Association stated. “His family fondly remembers him as someone who would do anything for them, a testament to the love and care he shared throughout his life.”
He is survived by his wife, Margie Shelton; daughters Sharon (James) Ziegler, Stephanie (Kameron) Dorsey, and Jennifer (Mark) Kearns; stepson Aaron Shelton; and eight grandchildren.

Fastener industry veteran Austin James Villarreal, 37, died February 25.
Experience included working for Sigma Fasteners and Patriot Bolt & Supply.
“He had a larger-than-life personality, a passionate heart, and an ability to make every single person feel seen and special. He never met a stranger,” his online obituary stated.
Villarreal is survived by his wife, Vanessa; daughters Kylie and Tatum; parents Ruben and Nancy Villarreal; sister Whitney Davidson, brother-in-law Mason Davidson, and their daughter Lakyn; and grandparents.
Support his family here: https://lnkd.in/gAZ5GtCM.

Cynthia Bishop Stowe, 68, died February 16.
Stowe devoted 37 years to Stewart Fastener and Tool, where she worked as a purchasing agent.
She is survived by her husband, Ernest Stowe, Sr.; daughter Brandi King (Jimmy); son Robert Brooks, Jr. (Joy); stepsons Ernest Stowe, Jr (Keisha) and Jimmy Stowe (Jennifer); 12 grandchildren; and a great granddaughter.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Samaritan’s Purse.

Volt Industrial Plastics founder Joseph Valentine Volltrauer, 87, died February 3.
Born in Yugoslavia, Volltrauer and his family emigrated to the U.S. when he was 14. He pursued an education in tool and die making at trade school, paving the way for a successful career.
Early in his career, he worked for JV Tool, crafting molds for companies in the Chicago area.
In 1975, he established Centennial Plastics in Mountain Home, AR. In 1992, founded Volt Industrial Plastics as a birthday gift to himself.
In 2002, he was inducted into the Fastener Hall of Fame for exceptional innovation in the field.
Volltrauer is survived by three daughters: Helga (Dana) Friedland, Brigitte Volltrauer-Shipman, and Heidi Volltrauer; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Erwine Volltrauer.
The family suggests donations in his name to:
Spectrum Connection of Arkansas
Hospice of the Ozarks

Chris Heller, 49, died January 25, 2026.
Heller was Branch Operations Manager in Columbus, OH, for Triangle Fastener Corporation.
He is survived by his parents, Margy and Roger Heller; his partner, Debbie Wittkop; and stepdaughter Olivia Wittkop.

2025

Distributor’s Link Magazine founder and publisher Leo Joseph Coar, 93, died January 12, 2026.
Born in Jersey City, NJ, he served four years in the U.S. Navy. In 1970 he and his wife, Myra, started Leo J. Coar Associates, a manufacturers’ representative agency serving fastener distributors nationwide. Together with partner Maryann Marzocchi, he launched Distributor’s Link in 1977.
Coar was inducted into the Fastener Hall of Fame. Known for his integrity, innovative spirit, and generosity, he was always willing to mentor others, especially start-ups.
“A true titan in the industry and a gentleman as well,” stated retired Tower Fasteners president Mark Shannon.
Survivors include his wife of 68 years; four children; six grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Marty Schneider, 78, of Franklin Lakes, NJ, died December 29, 2025.
He graduated from Erasmus Hall High School at 16, and earned MBAs from NYU Sterns and Columbia Business School.
Inducted into both the National Industrial Fastener Show and the U.S. Fastener Halls of Fame, he was well known within his industry. As president of nylon-insert locknut distributor Continental-Aero, Schneider eventually bought and sold his company while also serving many years as president of the Metropolitan Fastener Distributors Association.
He is survived by wife Margaret (née Birndorf) and their two children: Joshua and Perri, as well as daughter-in-law Kya (Kyamishka). He was predeceased by his parents, Lou and Lillian Schneider, and in-laws Leonard and Irene Birndorf.
Donations in his memory may be made to the ACLU.

Robert E. Meadows, 78, who had a 52-year career with Nylok Fastener Corp. in Lincolnwood, IL, died December 14, 2025.
He was preceded in death by spouse Diane Meadows and brother Dahlia Frame. Survivors include daughter Tammy Meadows (Adrian) Caballero; three grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Sebastian Janas, President of Sems and Specials, died December 13, 2025, as the result of a snowmobiling accident.
He was remembered as an “unbelievably principled, compassionate, and respected figure.”
“Sebastian truly was a once in a lifetime leader, and we at Sems and Specials were happy to have him as the President of our organization,” stated Sems and Specials CEO Bruce Hayes. “Day in and day out, Sebastian worked with each and every employee to ensure a bright future for everybody at Sems and Specials.”
Hayes has returned to Rockford to assume day-to-day responsibilities during this time of transition.

Former Mid-West Fastener Association director Nicholas “Nick” Viggiano, 70, died September 28, 2025.
Viggiano dedicated over 50 years to the fastener industry, most recently as VP of Supply Chain at Brighton-Best International.
“He was a true fastener industry veteran whose knowledge, mentorship, and friendships extended around the world,” MWFA commented. “Nick was instrumental in developing educational programs for the MWFA and played a valued role on our Scholarship Committee, where he took great joy in helping students pursue their goals. He also lent his expertise to the FQA advisory committee, shaping legislation that has guided our industry standards for decades.”
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in his name to Folds of Honor or the National Organization for Rare Disorders.

Peter Aaron Goyette, 62, died June 11.
He assisted his father Philip in running the family business, BGM Fastener Co. Over the last several years, Goyette grew BGM Fastener’s business with the support of his son, Spencer.
Survivors include wife Heidi (Smergut); children Sydney, Spencer, and Sophia; mother Judy (Brownell); and sister Judi Goyette.
Donations may be made to the Honesdale Biddy Basketball Association, in care of the Dime Bank, P.O. Box 509, Honesdale, PA 18431.

Herman Bruce Darling, 83, died August 16 in Florida.
A native of Texas, he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration – Accounting from Texas A&M University in 1965. Upon graduation, Darling received his Army commission as a Second Lieutenant. He served in Vietnam as an Infantry Platoon Leader and then Company Commander in 1967. His service was recognized with the Bronze Star Medal for Meritorious Achievement in Ground Operations Against Hostile Forces in the Republic of Vietnam in 1967.
Darling’s 47-year fastener career started at the BOSCO Fastening Service Center in Dallas. In 1988 he became materials VP at Porteous Fastener Co. During his career, Darling made 30 international sourcing trips totaling 1,300 visits to 425 fastener factories worldwide, and spoke at 30 fastener association meetings.
In 2005 he was inducted into the NIFS Hall of Fame.
Darling was preceded in death by spouse Cynthia Parker Darling; daughter Elizabeth; parents Herman and Ruth Darling; and siblings Joe Darling, Sally Darling Smith and Richard Darling.
Survivors include four children: RuthAnne Darling (Steven) Syble; Brad (Debbie) Darling; and Amy Darling; three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; brother Larry (Sherry) Darling and sister-in-law Violet Darling.
A celebration of life will be January 17, 2026, at Pitman Cemetery in Muldoon, TX.
The family suggests in lieu of flowers memorial donations to Trinity Lutheran Church Music Program, 1480 Douglas Ave., Gardnerville, NV 8410 or the charity of your choice.

Larry Stanley, 97, founder of Spokane, WA-based Empire Bolt & Screw Inc., died August 7.
He grew up in Oakesdale, WA, during the Great Depression and credits his upbringing for shaping his work ethic. Growing up poor, he learned to work hard.
His career in the hardware industry started with working in general hardware stores but ultimately, he had a dream to start his own business. In 1972, Stanley mortgaged everything to start Empire Bolt. Along with his wife and business partner Beverley, he built the wholesale hardware startup into a distributorship now owned by his son, Ron Stanley.
Larry Stanley was the charter president of the Western Association of Fastener Distributors in 1982-83 (now known as Pac-West Fastener Association). He also served on the National Fastener Distributor Association board from 1981-84 and was named to the National Industrial Fastener Show Hall of Fame in 1991.
Music played an important role in his life. In his early business days he entertained audiences at night with his jazz bands. As a clarinetist he performed in the NFDA or WAFD bands.
A celebration of his life is being planned for autumn. In lieu of flowers, gifts to any of the following organizations are suggested:
* Salvation Army of Spokane;
* Union Gospel Mission of Spokane;
* Innovia Community Foundation – Oakesdale Community Endowment Fund.

David Schuster, 80, retired manufacturers rep and former president of the Metropolitan Fastener Distributors Association, died June 5.
Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Nancy; son David (Jamie); daughter Dana (Andrew) Wilmot; and six grandchildren.

Ronald J. “Ron” Bartlett, 70, died March 31, 2025.
He managed Bartlett Products in Port Orange, FL, one of two locations owned by the company his father founded in 1950.
Bartlett held an Industrial Engineering degree from the Georgia Institute of Technology and an MBA from the Tepper School of Business at Carnegie Mellon University.
Survivors include his wife Renee; daughters Kate and Allyson; and a niece and nephews.

Robert J. Dickinson, 79, retired sales manager for Ford Fasteners in Hackensack, NJ, died March 1, 2025.
He had been active in the Metropolitan Fastener Distributors Association.
Survivors include daughters Megan (Mark) McCombs, Melanie (Justin) Karpenski, and Kerry Lynn (Rick) Boettcher; and six grandchildren. He was predeceased by daughter Dawn Marie Wright in 2011.
Memorial donations can be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

Fastenal Co. founder Robert A. “Bob” Kierlin, 85, died February 10, 2025.

Born in Winona, MN — the town his business made famous — Kierlin co-founded his legendary fastener distribution business in 1967 after earning a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Minnesota. Together with fellow Winona entrepreneurs Jack Remick, Van McConnon, and Steve Slaggie — to be later joined by Mike Gostomski — Kierlin launched a small hardware business called Fastenal Co., opening the first store in his father’s former auto shop in downtown Winona.

Kierlin’s original vision for Fastenal was dispensing fasteners out of franchised vending machines. After being turned down by at least 30 potential investors, he finally convinced his friends Remick, McConnon, Slaggie, and Gostomski to invest.

With little demand for fastener sizes and quantities that could be vended, the idea was tabled in favor of a store-based model that opened in Winona in 1967. Four years later, Fastenal opened its first branch in Rochester, MN, storing inventory in rented garages around Winona. Kierlin and his partners grew the business, which went public in 1987 and cracked the S&P 500 in 2008.

Kierlin’s vending machine vision became reality in 2010, when Fastenal began sending vending machines to major customers for instant and on-demand inventory. Now the company operates over 100,000 vending machines in 25 countries.

Kierlin served as Fastenal CEO from 1968-2002, as well as its president from 1968-2001. He retired from the Board of Directors in 2014, which he’d been chairman of since the company’s incorporation in 1968.

From 1999-2006, he also served in the Minnesota Senate, working to establish early childhood education programs, secure state funding for the nascent Great River Shakespeare Festival, and support veterans and small businesses.

In his later years, Kierlin and his wife, Mary Burrichter, created the Hiawatha Education Foundation, which donates to Montessori schools across Minnesota. In addition, the couple founded the Minnesota Marine Art Museum, as well as the forthcoming Minnesota Masterpiece Hall — a concert hall and art venue that seeks to host world-class classical musicians and attract visitors from across North America to Winona.

2024

Former Mid-West Fastener Association board member Ross Arthur Shepard, 65, died December 2, 2024.
“Ross was a consistent supporter of the MWFA, sharing his kindness, quick wit, and dedication with all who had the pleasure of knowing him,” the association stated. “He will be deeply missed.”
Shepard worked for years in sales at Morton Grove, IL-based Alfa Tools.
Survivors include brothers Mark (Christine) and Jim; sister Ellen (John); aunt Shelley, nieces and nephews, and a grandniece and grandnephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret.
The family suggests donations to Ravinia, Attn: Ross Shepard Tribute.

Dennis M. Shanahan, 75, former president of the Metropolitan Fastener Distributors Association, died November 7, 2024.
His 40-year fastener career included 20 years with Mutual Screw & Supply.
Survivors include his spouse, Marta; daughter Kyla (Stephen); son Dennis (Lauren); and five grandchildren.

Kirsten Renee Ellis Webb, 30, of Troutman, NC, died October 14.
She served as CFO for fastener distributor Amerifast Supply.
Survivors include four children: Wyatt (11), Waylynn (9), Whitley (6), and Wrylee (5); mother Lisa Ellis and father Robert Ellis; grandmother; and two sisters.

James Dacey, 77, died September 25 of cancer in northern Kentucky.
He owned D&D Distribution, a manufacturer’s representative company for specialty fasteners and welding equipment.
Dacey enjoyed sports, fishing and traveling the country for football games.
He is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Melody Dacey; daughters Julie Keininger and Heather Tomlin (Joel); five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
Donations may be made to Hoxworth Blood Center, Financial Services, University of Cincinnati, PO Box 670055, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0055.

William W. Donahue Sr., 76, died September 1.
He built a career in fastener distribution, launching his own business in 1975 out of his garage. Over the next five decades he built Arnold Supply Inc. into a global fastener distribution company. A member of the National Fastener Distributors Association, he was named to the New England Fastener Distributors Association Hall of Fame in 2019, having served multiple terms as board member and president.
The family requests contributions to LiveWell.org.

David Warren Kendall died in June in Portland, OR.
A summer job at a local fastener company became his life work. Kendall joined Portland Screw in 1951 as a clerk typist, eventually buying the company. He was active in the National Fastener Distributor Association and a founder and initial board member of Western Association of Fastener Distributors (now Pac-West Fastener Association).
Kendall is survived by his children: Ann of Spokane, Wash., Steve (Kate) and Jim of Portland; three grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Adele and their son Dick.

Robert Martin Calfee III, 86, founder of Copper State Bolt & Nut Co., died July 23, 2024.
He founded Copper State in 1972 and grew the company to more than 600 employees at 30 facilities serving 16,000 customers.
“Martin’s legacy is one of hard work, community engagement, and a commitment to complete everything he started,” his family wrote.
“He was an avid collector of Harley Davidson t-shirts, loose change, and newspaper rubber bands. His hobbies included washing cars and mowing the grass with a cigar and Black Cherry White Claws. He loved day-old coffee, raw hamburger meat, and sunbathing slathered in Baby Oil.”
Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Margaret Mary Tiffany (Monnie) for 60 years; daughters Elizabeth Chatfield Licosati (David), Virginia Tiffany Linsalata (Mark), Sarah Jane Shannon (John), Robin Martin LeFevre (Greg), Cinco Calfee Sorrow (Chris); and nine grandchildren.
A private family service has been held.
The family suggests memorial donations to St. Francis Xavier Elementary School in Phoenix, AZ.
Messages to the family may be sent c/o Copper State Nut & Bolt, 3602 N 35th Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85017-4408. Email: websales@CopperState.com

Ultra Fastener Co. co-founder Richard Proteau, 86, died July 1.
He started his fastener career at 16 with cold threaded parts manufacturer Fastron, where his mother Pauline worked as a secretary to the company president. By 18, he was promoted to outside sales to supply houses in Midwest farming communities.
In 1967, he relocated to Southern California to become Fastron’s West Coast distributor, focusing on locknuts for aerospace, trucking and manufacturing, supplying for a range of products from garbage disposals to wheelchairs and skateboards.
Proteau was the 1970-71 and 1982-83 president of the Los Angeles Fastener Association. He was instrumental in introducing the Fastener Basics classes and creating the Basic Fastener Handbook. He also led the inaugural LAFA trade show at the Queen Mary in 1986, “demonstrating his forward-thinking approach to the industry’s development,” the Pacific-West Fastener Association stated.
In 1989, he and his wife Joyce co-founded Ultra Fastener Co., Inc., where they continued to work together until he died.
“Throughout his career, Richard was known for his excellent health, friendly demeanor, and his ability to connect with everyone he met, leaving a lasting impact on the fastener community,” Pac-West noted.
Messages to the family may be sent c/o Ultra Fastener, P.O. Box 2367, Orange, CA 92859-0367. Email: rp@UltraFastener.com

John A. Carson, Jr., 89, died June 18.
He founded Carson’s Nut-Bolt & Tool Co. Inc. in 1969. In 55 years the distributorship has grown to 80 employees at three South Carolina locations.
Survivors include his spouse of 68 years, Jane; son, James Fletcher Carson of Budapest, Hungary; daughter, Julie Carson Bayne of Travelers Rest, SC; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by son John Adams Carson, III; and granddaughter, Janie Grace Moore.
The family suggests memorial donations to Miracle Hill Ministries c/o Miracle Hill Children’s Home, P.O. Box 2546, Greenville, SC 29602.
Messages to the family may be sent c/o Carson’s Nut-Bolt & Tool, 301 Hammett St., Greenville, SC 29609-4466. Email: info@carons-nbt.com

Robert A. Robertson, 89, of East Hampstead, NH, died May 27.  He had been president for General Dynamics, Sunbeam Corporation and Fairchild Fasteners. During the first 20 years of his career, he worked for General Electric, followed by Textron as president of Optoelectronis and GM of Banco Textron.
Survivors include his spouse, Donna (Dussault) Robertson; son Scott (Debra); five grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. He was predeceased by daughter Jill and former spouse Cherrill.

Theodore (Ted) Dzus Jr., 80, died April 9. He became president of Dzus Fastener Co. of West Islip, NY, in 1982.
He was grandson of company founder William Dzus, an American engineer of Ukrainian descent who invented and patented the Dzus Fastener — a cam-locking fastener which only required a quarter-turn to lock.
Working for his grandfather and father at Dzus Fastener in the 1960s, he expanded the company’s initial market beyond the aircraft industry into the motorsports and custom automotive arenas. He was inducted into the International Drag Racing Hall of Fame in 2019.
He also extended Dzus Fasteners into medical hardware by creating a fastener to repair complex long bone fractures.
He was active in preserving Ukrainian culture through the Ukrainian Institute of America.
Survivors include his spouse Carol; children Todd Dzus, Dara Fedele, Christine Dzus and Lori Miller.

Lawrence Arnold “Larry” Scharringhausen, 82, died May 3. In 1974, he founded Liberty Fastener Company of Bensenville, IL.
Survivors include his spouse, Sharon; children John (Laurie) Shahinian, Michael (Vicki) Scharringhausen, Lisa (Bill) Seagraves, Shari (Dean) Nickens, and Janet (Ron) Fowler; 11 grandchildren; and three great grandchildren.
The family suggests memorial donations to: Wounded WarriorProject.org, StJude.org or StPeterah.churchcenter.com – specifying South Africa.
Funeral information and condolences can be given at www.GlueckertFuneralHome.com or (847) 253-0168.

Rachel Verlinda Cordova, 92, died March 27 at her home in Tustin, CA. She co-owned Cordova Bolt Inc. with her late husband, Moses.
Cordova was born in 1931 in an adobe home near the banks of the Huerfano River and famous Trappers’ Trail in Southern Colorado. Her parents were proud Hispano ranchers, and her maternal and paternal grandparents were Colorado pioneers, born within twenty years of the same land becoming part of the United States. Her ancestral lines include Native Americans and members of the first European settlement in the desert Southwest, near the crossing of the Río Chama and Río Grande rivers in New Mexico in 1598, pre-dating the pilgrims landing at Plymouth Rock in 1620.
Her first job was herding sheep on the prairie, where she learned to shoot rattlesnakes to protect the flock.
In the mid-1960s, Moses Cordova became co-owner of a new fastener company, Circle Bolt, Inc., in Santa Fe Springs. Rachel managed the clerical staff and the accounting department. And Circle Bolt was profitable within the first month of doing business.
In 1975, Moses and Rachel founded Cordova Bolt, which was first located in Santa Fe Springs before moving to a larger location in Buena Park. For many years, Cordova Bolt appeared on the list of the top 500 Hispanic companies in the U.S.
They also started Centennial Bolt in Denver, CO, and were originally co-owners with a former Cordova Bolt employee and their son, Mark.The Cordovas were involved with the National Fastener Distributors Association (NFDA), Western Association of Fastener Distributors (WAFD), Pacific-West Fastener Association (Pac-West), and the Los Angeles Fastener Association (LAFA). Rachel was also on the national board of directors of LAMA (Latin American Manufacturers’ Association, later Latin American Management Association) in Washington, D.C.
She is survived by three children: Karen, Mark, and Matthew; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

William Garland “Bill” Henderson, Sr., 82, died March 19. He started his sales career with Southern Fastener in Mobile, AL and then moved to Security Fastener in Pensacola, FL. He moved up to managing Security Fastener and later became owner and CEO.
Henderson enjoyed fishing and sports. He started the Southern Fastener men’s softball team and travelled throughout the South playing tournaments. In 1970, his softball team won the southern region and went to the World Tournament in Michigan and placed 13th.
Survivors include wife Ruthie Duvall Henderson; son, Bill Henderson Jr.; four grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

2023

Garfield “Gar” Edmonds III, 72, died February 25 in Houston.
After earning a BA in industrial engineering from Pennsylvania State University, Edmonds spent his career manufacturing and distributing fasteners, growing Houston-based Alloy & Stainless Fasteners to locations in Texas, Pennsylvania, Oregon, California and The Netherlands.
Survivors include daughter Callie O’Donnell (Ian); grandson, Owen; mother, Lois S. Michael; brother Kenneth Edmonds (Emily); and sister Stacy Edmonds.
Messages to the family may be sent c/o Alloy & Stainless Fasteners, 11625 Charles Rd., Houston, TX 77041-2407. Email: CentralSales@goASF.com

David Meyers Sr., 83, died January 3.  He founded Meyers Company in 1972.  He had been a Specialty Tools & Fasteners Distributors Association board member.
Survivors include his spouse, Carolyn; children Karri Meyers, Chris (Lou) Shearer and David (Jen) Meyers;  seven grandchildren; and one great grandchild.
The family suggests memorial contributions to Clear Thoughts Foundation, 3000 Village Rd., Unit 103 # 225, Wexford, PA 15090.
Messages to the family may be sent c/o Meyers Company, 435 Davidson Rd., Pittsburgh, PA 15239-1733.  Web: MeyersCompany.net

2022

Terry Tobias, 78, died January 4, 2022.
A model train enthusiast, Tobias started his fastener career at TRW and Palnut. Later he became sales rep and President of Spirol. In 1983, he founded Spring Steel Fastener Co. dba Springfast.
He’s survived by his brother Lynn (Meryl); son Andy (Beth); grandchildren Annabelle, Zachary, Ethan and Hannah; and great friend of over 40 years, Linda Mernan.

Mark J. Georgia, 64, president of Fascomp Electronic Hardware, died unexpectedly on December 27, 2022.  He managed Fascomp based in Naugatuck, CT, with his co-owner Jason Bertone based in Orlando, FL.
Survivors include his wife, Karen; daughter Ashley Scagliarini; and son Kyle.
Memorial contributions may be made to Tunnel to Towers. Web: t2t.org or WoundedWarriorProject.com
Messages to the family may be sent c/o Fascomp, 88 Great Hill Rd., Naugatuck, CT 06770-2224. Email: Kyle@Fascomp.com

Donald W. Farmer, 94, founder of Interstate Bolt of Shrewsbury, MA, died October 17, 2022.  He was a past president of the New England Fastener Distributors Association.
Survivors include his spouse, Judith; children Doug Farmer, Beth Levin, Janice Gilpin, Mike Farmer and Tom Farmer; adopted son Jon Newcomer; step-daughters Paula Grover, Donna Tolppa and Lynda Fabas; 18 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son, John Farmer; and three siblings.
Messages to the family may be sent c/o Britton-Shrewsbury Funeral Home, 648 Main St., Shrewsbury, MA 01545-5602.

Robert Dixon Cox, 87, died August 30, 2022.
A former Army buddy offered him a job with a bolt and nut company and he became a manager in cities across the South, including Columbia, SC and New Orleans. At the age of 45, with business partners he started Fastener Service Inc. in Dothan, AL.
He was preceded in death by his spouse of 61 years, Theresa.  Survivors include son, Robbie (Jan); daughter, Elizabeth (Russ); and four grandchildren.
The family suggests memorial donations to the Salvation Army, Save the Children, or a charity of your choice.  Online messages to the family may be left at: UsreyFuneralHome.com. 

Frank Deppe, 98, a founder and the 1979 president of the Specialty Tools & Fasteners Distributors Association, died August 11, 2022.
He started Fasteners Inc. of Grand Rapids, MI.
Survivors include his wife of 73 years, Bernice; children Dean Deppe, Tim Deppe, Mary Post and Patti Harris; grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Messages to the family may be sent c/o Fasteners Inc., 2909 Buchanan Ave. SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49548-1027. The family suggests memorial contributions to Calvin Theological Seminary or Kuyper College.

Don Wientjes, 81, CEO of Jacon Fasteners & Electronics, died August 2.
Wientjes took over Jacon when his father, who founded the San Fernando Valley distributorship in 1956, Lawrence Wientjes, died suddenly.
Survivors include spouse Sue; children Mark (Chanel), Allison, Sean (Suzette), Kristin (Colby); and seven grandchildren. A celebration of life will be planned at Conejo Mountain Memorial Park in Camarillo, CA.
Messages to the family may be sent c/o Jason Fasteners, 9539 Vassar Ave., Chatsworth, CA 91311-4141. Email: Sales@Jacon.com

Edward Johnson, 88, died July 24, 2022, at his residence.
He started Johnson American Fastener Company of Norristown, PA, from the trunk of his car in the 1960s. He was a founder and 10-year board member of the Mid-Atlantic Fastener Distributor Association.
Survivors include his spouse, Mary; children Philip (Cindi); Edward Jr. (Mary Ann); Mary Kathleen; and Andrew; seven grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Rosella; and son Donald.
He was active in his Catholic parish, including Eucharistic ministry roles for 30 years, a lector, liturgy committee and prison ministry.
The family suggests memorial donations to Canisius High School, 1180 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14209 or Visitation B.V.M.
Messages to the family may be sent c/o RLWilliamsFuneralHome.com.

Edward James “Ed” McIlhon, 75, died July 11, 2022.  He was a leader in the U.S. Fastener Quality Act legislative process and the 1994-95 president of the National Fastener Distributors Association.  He was inducted into the IFE Hall of Fame in 2019.
He grew up in Des Moines and after graduating from State College of Iowa in Cedar Falls, he established a branch of his father’s Iowa Industrial Products there. He returned to Des Moines in 1999 to head IIP.  After selling to Bossard of Switzerland, he became president of IIP.
He started McIlhon & Associates with his son, Casey McIlhon; bought back a portion of IIP; and in 2005 established Assembled Products, Inc.
He brought in sons and sons-in-law to work by his side, along with 50 employees.
A lifelong avid golfer, he also enjoyed the family cabin on Rainy Lake, Canada and homes in Clear Lake, IA, and Marco Island, FL.
Survivors include his spouse of 52 years, Meri Jo “Joey”; four children, Casey (Stacie) McIlhon, Kellie (Matt) Ulrich, Megan (Zach) Geary, and Riley (Misty) McIlhon; Joey’s daughter Rose (Dave) Fox; 13 grandchildren; and seven siblings.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Daniel and Raymetta McIlhon; siblings Joseph, Daniel, John and Margaret; and grandson, Andrew James Ulrich.
The family suggests memorials to The Andrew Giving Fund named for late grandson Andrew or A Heinz 57 Pet Rescue & Transport.  Messages to the family may be sent c/o Matt Ulrich, Assembled Products Inc., 4651 NW Urbandale Dr., Urbandale, IA 50322-4701. Email: MUlrich@AssembledProducts.net

Henry T. “Hank” Schaffner, 92, died June 28, 2022.
He started his career with U.S. Steel in 1956. He started in fasteners in 1959 with SPS and also worked for Allen Manufacturing Company, and Titan Fasteners. In 1977 he started Hank Schaffner Associates as a rep agency.
He was a member of the Los Angeles Fastener Association and the Western Association of Fastener Distributors during his 58 years in the fastener industry.
Survivors include his wife of 66 years, Elynna “Ellie” Schaffner; three children, Janet DeBiaso, Mark Schaffner and Michael Schaffner; and seven grandchildren.
Messages to the family may be sent c/o Elynna Schaffner, Merrill Gardens, 17200 Goldenwest St. #102, Huntington Beach, CA 92647-5412. A celebration of life is pending.

Patrick Joseph O’Toole, 85, died June 25, 2022.
Patrick O’Toole started his career as an assistant to the president of Lestoil. He became president of National Metal Specialists, a company acquired by Standex International, and became group president of six Standex companies.
He and his brother, Larry O’Toole, became entrepreneurs in acquisitions and sales. From 1981 to 2005 he led the Atlantic Fastener, taking the company from bankruptcy and five employees to 50. He championed the ‘new concept’ of a barcoded warehouse and guaranteed delivery. Under Atlantic’s corporate umbrella, he started SumTotal and Collars & Couplings. He took over Atlantic Fasteners of W. Springfield, MA, in 1981 and sold it to employees as an ESOP in 2005.
He had been president of the New England Fastener Distributors Association and was the 1990-91 president of the National Fastener Distributors Association. He was inducted in the NIFS Hall of Fame in 2004.
He played competitive golf in high school and graduated from the College of the Holy Cross cum Laude and earned his MBA from Harvard Business School.
Survivors include his wife, Nancy; and children, Steven O’Toole, Kevin O’Toole and Kathleen Manning; two step children, Jennifer Scott and Kimberly Stoerker; four grandchildren and three step grandchildren.
Memorial contributions are suggested “to those who most need your help.”
Messages to the family may be sent: NationalCremation.com.
For more on O’Toole, read 2011 FIN – O’Toole: Bar Coding Key to 30 Years of Atlantic Fasteners Growth.

Stephen Chalmers Mahoney Sr., 93, died May 16, 2022, in Green Valley, AZ.
He started his career in industrial sales for Yale & Towne, then joined SPS Technologies as a regional sales manager selling industrial fasteners from New York and Pennsylvania to Texas, Michigan and Illinois.  He finished his career as an independent manufacturer’s rep based in Carmel, IN.  He was proud of selling SPS Technologies’ aerospace products to NASA for the first Space Shuttle.
Survivors include his children Elizabeth Mahoney, Stephen Mahoney Jr (Maureen), Andrew Mahoney and three grandchildren.
The immediate family will hold a service and private scattering later this summer.  The family suggests planting a tree as a memorial.  Oasis Cremation & Funeral Care.

Joe Orosz, 84, died April 25, 2022.  He started his career in machine repair and maintenance at Canada Forge and eventually became vice president of Niagara Fasteners.
Survivors include spouse of 62 years, Marlene; father to Jolene (Mark) Slack, Michael Orosz and Heather Weaver-Orosz.; and two grandchildren.
The family suggests memorial donations to The Walker Family Cancer Centre, The Pelee Island Bird Observatory or the Niagara Falls Humane Society. Web: EssentialsNiagara.com

John Adams “Johnny” Carson III, 61, died March 2, 2022.  He was the general manager of Carson’s Nut, Bolt & Tool Inc. of South Carolina.
Survivors include his parents, John Adams Jr. and Jane Fletcher Carson; significant other Kimberly Sherman; sons John Carson IV and Joshua Carson; daughter Sara Moore; and three grandchildren.  Messages to the family may be sent c/o Carson’s Nut, Bolt & Tool Inc., 301 Hammett St. Ext, Greenville, SC 29609-4466.  Web: Carsons-nbt.com
The family suggests donations to American Cancer Society, 154 Millestone Way A, Greenville, SC 29615-4466.

Robert J. Harris, 75, retired managing director of the Industrial Fasteners Institute, died January 22, 2022.  In 1995, he became the sixth IFI managing director and by the time he retired in 2017 he was longest to serve in the role.
Prior to the IFI, he had been a ship’s captain, corporate VP for a Cleveland aerospace manufacturer and in charge of an industrial division involving vibration monitoring and predictive maintenance.
He took over the IFI when the industry was divided during the legislative process of the U.S. Fastener Quality Act.
The IFI said “his first task was to stabilize IFI’s financial situation, which he did by directly overseeing industry trade shows in Cleveland and Chicago for six years, adding much needed financial strength to IFI’s reserves.  Then, with Institute leadership, he reorganized IFI’s divisions and oversaw the onboarding of nationally recognized experts in government affairs, technical standards, research, and training.”
The IFI honored him with its Soaring Eagle Meritorious Service Award in 2018.
Current managing director Dan Walker said “Rob Harris was a friend, ardent supporter, mentor, and always willing sounding board for ideas.  Rob showed me the ropes when I was the ‘new kid on the block’ after he retired in 2017, and I will be forever grateful for the time we spent together discussing plans for the future of IFI.”
Survivors include his spouse, Patricia Harris; son Nathan (Ashley) Harris; daughter Julie (Kyle); and three granddaughters.
Messages to the family may be set via email: HarrPatRob@gmail.com or 103 Anglers Dr., Chagrin Falls, OH 44022.
The family suggests memorial donations to the Geauga Humane Society Animal Shelter, 15463 Chillicothe Rd, Novelty, OH 44072 or the Pat Meade Memorial Scholarship Fund at Compton College, 1111 E. Artesia Blvd., Compton, CA 90221, Attention: Reuben James

Nancy Roberts, corporate secretary and accountant for Falcon Metal Corporation for 28 years, died of cancer January 11.  Bruce and Nancy Roberts founded Falcon Metal in 1979 and sold it to Don Nowak in 2008.
Messages to the family may be sent c/o TR Falcon Fastenings, 10715 John Price Rd., Charlotte, NC 28273-4529.

2021

Steve Welch, 65, died unexpectedly May 2.
He started his fastener career over 40 years ago in the warehouse and then became an inside salesperson with Service Supply in Tennessee. He then became a Service Supply branch manager in West Virginia.  He subsequently became branch manager in Ohio and territory sales manager in Tennessee.
After a stint as district sales manager for Hillman Fasteners he rejoined Service Supply in South Carolina as territory sales manager and then national accounts sales manager. In 2000 he joined Lindstrom Metric as an outside salesperson and in 2016 he formed a rep agency, S.A. Welch & Associates, representing Lindstrom Metric, Titan Fasteners and Stelfast.
Survivors include his spouse, Suzann; daughter Hillary; and son Andrew. Messages for the family can be sent to steveawelch@hotmail.com or Suzannwelch@gmail.com.

William “Skip” English died February 23.
For more than 40 years, English worked in the fastener industry for more than 40 years. In 2000, he partnered with Mike Ratzlaff to own and operate All Apec Fasteners in Irvine, CA.
English is survived by his wife Carol.
A celebration of life will take place once Covid-19 restrictions allow for large group gatherings.
In lieu of flowers, Carol suggests donations “In Memory of William ‘Skip’ English” to either the Ventura County Humane Society or the charity of their choice.

Charles “Charlie” Wilson, 86, died February 22.
Wilson served as the Industrial Fasteners Institute’s technical director from 1963 until he retired in 2007, the longest serving director in IFI history.
“Charlie was a veritable IFI institution and a true icon of the fastener industry,” the IFI stated.  “He was highly respected around the world for his immense knowledge and innumerable contributions to fastener technology and fastener standardization.”
During his career, he led the development of a vast collection of industry standards that continue to be used daily.  Wilson received his Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from Case Institute of Technology and a Master of Science degree in mechanical engineering from Bucknell University.  He was also a registered Professional Engineer in Ohio.
Prior to joining the IFI, Wilson taught mechanical engineering at Fenn College of Engineering at Cleveland State University.  During this period, he also served as director of the university’s Heat/Power Laboratory.  In addition, Wilson served as a consultant to Cleveland Electric Illuminating Co. and participated in research at NASA in the analysis of the two-phase flow of hydrogen for nuclear rocket propulsion.
In 1971, Wilson was appointed secretary of the ANSI Special Committee to Study Development of the Optimum Metric Fastener System and served as a member on all its technical subcommittees.  He also served as chair of ASTM Committee F16 on fasteners and of Subcommittee F16.94 on Fastener Terminology.  Wilson was a member of the SAE Fasteners Committee and served on ASME Committees B1 on Screw Threads, B18 on Fasteners, and the ASME Board on Standardization. He served as Chair of ASME B18.12 on Fastener Terminology and Format.  He was a member of the Research Council on Structural Connections, and of the Bolting Technology Council.
“Charlie was very proud to serve as chair of ASME B18.4, the United States TAG to ISO Committee TC2 on Fasteners and led the US delegation in international standards meetings held in Sweden, Germany, Great Britain, China, France, Italy and the United States,” according to the IFI.
Wilson served as editor of IFI’s iconic Book of Fastener Standards, Inch and Metric.
He was a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and served as Chair of the Cleveland Section.  He was a recipient of a centennial medallion awarded by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers for excellence of service to ASME and the mechanical engineering profession.  He received the ASME Dedicated Service Award and a Certificate of Appreciation from the U.S. Department of Commerce for outstanding service to the nation as a member of the Fastener Quality Act Advisory Committee.  In 2001, Charlie was recipient of the ASTM Fred F. Weingruber Award for contributions to fastener standardization.  In 2016 he was recipient of the ASTM Frank W. Reinhart Award for his contributions to fastener terminology.
Wilson is survived by his wife of 61 years, Mary Ann Wilson; daughters Suzanne Wilson and Carolyn Wilson (Bart Terburg); and grandson Daniel Terburg.
In lieu of flowers, the family prefers contributions in his name to the ASME Foundation, 1828 Street, NW suite 510, Washington, DC 20036.  Web: https://www.asmefoundation.org/donate/

William H. “Bill” Bernard, 66, died February 1.
He started as a parts manager for a Southern California Utility Trailer and became sales manager at Golden State Fasteners in Whittier.  He was sales manager for Duncan Bolt Company in Santa Fe Springs the last 12 years of his career before retiring in 2016. He was legally blind for the last 15 years.
Survivors include wife Donna; children Jenalee Bernard Vesneski and Drew Bernard; and four grandchildren.
A celebration of life will take place this summer when it is safe do so.
Messages to the family may email to Donna: Dbpismo@gmail.com

Irvin Cohen, 95, died January 9 in Pennsylvania.  He was founder of Eastern Machine Products, Inc., a metal stamping and fabricating business, and Construction Fasteners Inc., an industrial fastener manufacturer based in Wyomissing, PA.
Survivors include his spouse of 70 years, Lois; children Helene Bludman and Richard; four grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
Private services are planned.  The family suggests memorial donations to Opportunity House.  Web: Opphouse.org  GoogleWorks.org  Web: HenningerFuneralHome.com 

2020

Barry A. Carpe, Sr., 71, died December 29, 2020.   He had co-owned All-Tech Specialty Fasteners in Connecticut for 18 years.  He co-owned B&B Threaded Components in Connecticut from 1987 to 2003.  He was a past president of the New England Fastener Distributors Association and was inducted into the NEFDA Hall of Fame.
Survivors include his wife, Deborah Carpe; sons Barry Carpe, Jr. and Ryan Carpe; daughter Heidi Carpe; , stepson Stephen Petruzzi; stepdaughters Melissa Kubasiak and Karen Condon; and 10 grandchildren.
Messages to the family may be sent c/o All-Tech Specialty Fasteners, 381 Governors Hwy, Unit D, South Windsor, CT 06074-2517.   Email: sales@all-techspecfast.com
The family suggests memorial donations  to either Wounded Warriors Project, 4899 Belfort Rd., Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL., 32256 or Make A Wish Foundation, 133 Federal St., 2nd fl., Boston, MA 02110.  Web: morinfuneralhomes.com

George James Oshkello, 79, died December 29, 2020, in Florida.
Raised in New York City, he worked in sales until retiring from Brighton-Best International in 2005. At BBI he was responsible for building the regional sales team and opening up international markets.
Survivors include spouse Joan; son Craig; and two grandchildren.
The family suggests memorial donations to Living Tree Alliance – a non-profit that George helped build; Hudson Valley Alzheimer’s Association; Community Chavurah of Delaware; or Jewish Community of Greater Stowe; or make an unsolicited act of kindness for someone less fortunate.
Online shiva services were held in early January. Web: bethisraelchapel.com/obituaries/George-Oshkello/#!/Obituary

Winston Leonard “Win” Adams, 78, died December 13, 2020.
He and his spouse Barbara founded Adams Nut & Bolt in 1979 and he was president of the National Fastener Distributors Association for 1986-87.  They sold Adams Nut & Bolt to Würth in 1997 and he retired in 2001.
Among his hobbies was golf and he was proud of six hole-in-ones and playing at 79 of the top 100 U.S. golf courses.
Survivors include his wife; daughters: Shawn (Dan) Moloczij and Nicolle (Bill) Woods; and four grandchildren.
Due to Covid restrictions there will be a private family-only service December 16, 2020.  There will be a public celebration at Basilica of Minneapolis in the spring: CaringBridge.org/visit/winstonadams.
He was proud of 48 years of sobriety and the family suggests memorial donations for people struggling with addiction to Abbott Northwestern Hospital Foundation, 800 E. 28th St., MR-16509, Minneapolis, MN 55407.  Web: Allinahealth.org
See Fastener History section of GlobalFastenerNews.com: 2001 FIN – Win Adams: Getting the Order

Doug Adams, founder of EFC International, died December 8.
In 1968, he started a manufacturers’ representative agency – D.F. Adams & Associates.
In 1983, he founded EFC, which has grown to be a global supplier of engineered fasteners with locations including North America, Europe and Asia.
Part of his fastener pioneering was establishing EFC as an early fastener distributor focused on highly engineered fasteners and branded product lines, and intentionally building a sales team of engineers capable of design and innovation.  His contributions to the industry are widespread, including creating what a “master distributor” can evolve into, customer and supplier partnering, and one of the earliest adopters of visionary technologies.
He was an artist, biker, designer, fisherman, art collector, pet lover, boater, philanthropist, husband, father and grandfather.
Messages to the family may be sent c/o EFC International, 1940 Craigshire, St. Louis, MO 63146-4008.

Fastener specialist Bengt Blendulf died of glioblastoma on April 22, 2020.
He started in the fastener industry in 1966 with Swedish fastener manufacturer Bulten.  He moved to the U.S. in 1974 to start a subsidiary for Bulten.  In 1988 he joined the faculty of Clemson University’s College of Engineering & Science. Following eight years with Clemson, he founded EduPro US Inc., where he was president and principal lecturer until he retired at over 80 years old at the end of 2018.
He was one of the founders of the Bolting Technology Council – which he chaired from 1996 to 2006.  He received ASTM’s Weingruber Award in 1996 and the Industrial Fasteners Institute’s Soaring Eagle award in 2013.
He authored more than 100  journal articles and several books  –including Joint Technology for Threaded Fasteners, Mechanical Fastening and Joining and contributing to Handbook of Bolts and Bolted Joints.

Watson Woodrow Stanley, 96, died May 18, 2020.
He was the founder of Darling Bolt in 1958 in Warren, MI.  Upon selling it to a partner, he started Stanley Industries in 1967.  Both businesses still exist today.
In the Army, Stanley was shot in Europe on V-E Day – the last day of World War II.  He was awarded a Purple Heart.
He was a Detroit Institute of Technology graduate.
Survivors include his wife, Elizabeth; three children, William (Barb) Stanley, Robert (Lana Kenny) Stanley and Judy (Jim) Cash; 10 grandchildren; and nine great grandchildren.
A celebration of life is being planned for late summer.  The family suggests memorial donations to Shepherd of the Lakes Church, Brighton, MI.  Web: sotlchurch.churchcenter.com/giving  or WWII Legacy Memorial at Memorial Park, Royal Oak.  Web: michiganww2memorial.org/

John Kenneth “Ken” Hinson, 68, died May 5, 2020.
He started with Century Fasteners Corp. in Charlotte in 1978.  In 1985 he opened a Century branch in Columbia, SC.  He continued as branch manager even after becoming a double amputee.  He retired in 2019.
Survivors include his daughter, Kelly Hinson, and his personal friend, Barbara Caraturo.  He was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Blair Hinson.
Messages to the family may be sent c/o Century Fasteners, 2500 Leap Hart Rd. Suite 1, West Columbia, SC 29169.  Email: ColumbiaSales@CenturyFasteners.com

Neil Hadfield, 75, died April 28 in San Diego.
He was co-founder of Western Pacific Data Systems in 1979, which became Faspac Fastener Solutions.  In 1981 co-founders Margaret Jackson and Hadfield acquired the fastener distribution software developer from co-founders Bill Vollmer and Dennis Marteeny and went on to sell 500 systems in the next 22 years.  Faspac was sold to Prophet 21 in 2003.
Survivors include his spouse, Margaret Jackson; three children; and four grandchildren.
Messages may be sent to the family: 6026 Vista De La Mesa, La Jolla, CA 92037-6544.

Tim Graham, 60, managing director of Archerdale Ltd, died from Covid-19 in a UK hospital, Fastener + Fixing Magazine reports.
Archerdale chairman Glyn Brown had worked with Graham for 40 years in several Yorkshire fastener companies.  Archerdale was established in 1983, with Brown joining the family business in 1992 to form the fastener segment and Graham joining a year later.
“A recruitment I was never to regret,” Brown said, “which is not to say we didn’t have some moments when the relationship crackled – but that was always a measure of Tim’s personal strength, his commitment to the business, and to getting it right.”
Graham was appointed managing director at the end of 2019 when Brown became chairman, according to Fastener + Fixing.
Archerdale, a manufacturer and distributor of fasteners and associated products, has been operational throughout the coronavirus pandemic.
“We have a significant number of key customers operating in essential industry sectors, who are reliant on Archerdale maintaining a reliable and effective supply chain,” Brown explained.  “As a result, and I believe combined with our performance as a supplier and quality of our team, we have not really experienced the top-line impact felt by many other companies in the fastener sector.”
Brown has resumed the managing director role.
Survivors include his spouse Amanda and children Sam and Sara.
Messages to the family may be sent c/o Archerdale Ltd, Hirstwood Works, Hirstwood Road, Shipley, West Yorkshire, BD18 4BU.  Email: sales@Archerdale.com

Keith E. Mantis died unexpectedly on April 19.  He was the founder and principal owner of Fasteners Inc / Southwestern Supply, internet retailer ToolUp.com and Professional Contractors Supply.  He started San Diego Fasteners Inc. in a storage unit in San Diego in 1987 as a construction supply company.
He joined the Evergreen Marketing Group in 1994, served on the board 1997-2000 and as president 1999-2000.  He served 25 years on Evergreen’s education committee.  Mantis also served on the Specialty Tool & Fasteners Distributor Association board.
Survivors include his son, Michael Mantis (Jennifer) and one grandson.  He was preceded in death by a son, Keith E. Mantis Jr.
Messages to the family may be sent c/o Fasteners Inc., 4170 W. Harmon Ave. #4, Las Vegas, NV 89103.  Web:  FastenersLV.com

Brighton-Best Socket Screw Mfg. co-founder Perry Rosenstein, 94, died April 3 from COVID-19, the New Jersey Globe reports.
His company, which he sold in 2008 to a consortium of Taiwanese investors led by Ta Chen International president Robert Shieh, became Brighton-Best International, the largest fastener importer in North America.
“Sad new for us old timers that had the privilege to know Perry,” stated Don Haggerty of Stelfast.
“This is terrible news, especially for those of us at Brighton,” added BBI president Jun Xu.  “I can only say that we would not be where we are today without the work Perry put into BBSSMI.  It was an incredible platform to build off of.  We are humbled and proud to carry on a part of his legacy in the work we do everyday.”
Rosenstein was born in the Bronx to Polish emigrants “who instilled in him a tremendous work ethic and a passion for social justice,” his website biography said.  He served in the South Pacific during World War II and and graduated from Indiana University, after which he earned a masters degree from Long Island University.
Rosenstein started his post-college career as a school teacher.
“The experience of learning to be a teacher” was excellent training for his career in fasteners, Rosenstein told GlobalFastenerNews.com in 2007.
His first fastener job was with Globe Bolt & Screw Co.  He then joined Stevens Socket Screw Co., which was later bought out by MSL Industries and became a part of Heads & Threads.  Rosenstein then became a VP of Heads & Threads.
Stanley Sevell and Rosenstein founded Best Socket Screw Co. in New York City in 1965.  Three years later they formed Brighton-Best Socket Screw when they acquired Brighton Screw Co. of Cincinnati and merged the names.  Brighton-Best grew to a major supplier of inch and metric hexagon alloy socket screws.
After retiring in 2008, Rosenstein gave even more attention to his foundations.  He told GlobalFastenerNews.com he donated hundreds of thousands of dollars in grants to support the arts in New York, New Jersey and Ohio.
“We support the arts – especially those by ‘people with beliefs, color or gender which are out of the mainstream.’”
In 1983, Rosenstein founded the Puffin Foundation, a Teaneck-based progressive non-profit that he self-funded to provide over 400 grants for the arts and culture.  He also created the Abraham Lincoln Brigade Archives, which preserved the history of Americans who fought against Franco and fascism, and started an awards program that recognized individuals and groups that impact human rights.  The Puffin Gallery for Social Activism is a permanent exhibit at the Museum of the City of New York.
Puffin reportedly provided $100,000 annually to the National Associates for a creative citizenship award.  Recipients included Reverend Barber, Ben Jealous, Colin Kaepernick, the Parkland Students, and the Sunrise Movement.
Another Rosenstein favorite foundation, Teaneck Creek Conservancy, turned garbage dumps into parks or wetlands where birds return to nest.
His philanthropy was all a part of “giving back” from his successful career and in fighting global warming and pollution, he told GlobalFastenerNews.com.
Click here to visit the Facebook page created by the Puffin Foundation to celebrate Rosenstein’s life.

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