1972 Distinguished Service Citation

The prominent position of leadership that you have attained in the furniture industry exemplifies the rewards and achievements hard work, dedication, and fidelity to intellectual talents can reap. With an eye toward salesmanship, you joined the Kroehler Manufacturing Company in 1949 as a field representative. The stage was set for your rapid climb up the ladder of success when, eight years later, you were named to the executive staff as merchandise manager. Subsequent advancements included election as a director and executive vice president; and in 1968, you became the firm’s first president outside the immediate Kroehler family in its 75-year history. In addition to holding such prominent professional positions as president of the Home Furnishings Council and the National Association of Furniture Manufacturers, a director of the Brand Names Foundation, and 1969 recipient of the coveted Innovator Award, you have found time to serve your Alma Mater as an Alumni Trustee, your church as a deacon, the Chicago Council on Foreign Relations and the Bank Of Naperville as a director, and National Bible Week as industry chairman. It is no wonder that you were early listed in “Who’s Who.” In testimony of your many accomplishments and outstanding leadership qualities, Beloit College proudly presents this Distinguished Service Citation to you.