Welcome back to another semester.

Rather than send an update on the latest Amtek news, I'd like to take this opportunity to share some unfortunate news. For those of you who may not have heard, John “Jack” Taylor, Amtek Company’s founder and my father-in-law, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 13th surrounded by family.

Jack was an incredible man with an incredible presence. He fearlessly started Amtek Company in 1979 with a single loan and a huge vision. With a great deal of determination, patience, and a sense of humor, Jack was able to build a solid foundation for the company that is Amtek today.   I was lucky enough to join Amtek in 1982 and see firsthand the magic that was Jack. He was one of those individuals who could strike up a conversation with just about anyone, which is probably why sales was always the right business for him.

Early on we would travel to different tradeshows, and I will always remember one in particular in which there was a piano sitting in the middle of the exhibit hall. Jack sat down and began playing. Within minutes every single person in that room gathered around the piano and Jack went on to entertain them all. His vivacious personality and good humor were infectious.

You can find more on Jack’s legacy in his obituary here. I know I speak for everyone here at Amtek, when I promise that we will continue to march on in the spirit of Jack. He was a bold leader, caring father and grandfather, and remarkable man. He will be greatly missed.

- Ron Baddock