Global Fastener News

Sebastian Janas, President of Sems and Specials, died December 13, 2025, as the result of a snowmobiling accident.

Janas was born in Poland and immigrated to the U.S. with his family at age 11. His interest in the fastener industry began at age 14, inspired by his father, Ryszard, who helped start fastener manufacturer Rumco.

“Sebastian spent Saturdays at the company learning how fasteners were made, gaining early hands-on experience. Once he was old enough, he officially joined Rumco, starting from the ground up by washing parts. He continued working there through high school and college, gradually learning every aspect of the business,” according to the NFDA.

While attending DeVry University in Chicago, Janas worked in the shipping department at Rumco, and after graduating, accepted a full-time position in sales.

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.”