Monday, August 28, 2006

O'Sullivan officials take nine days to finally announce death of former CEO

It took hine days, but the death of O'Sullivan Industries' first million dollar CEO, Bob Parker, first mentioned in the Aug. 19 Turner Report was finally officially announced by the company on Aug. 22 The following news release was issued:

ROSWELL, Ga., Aug. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- O'Sullivan Industries reported today the passing of former CEO, Robert (Bob) S. Parker. Current O'Sullivan CEO and long time co-worker of Parker, Rick Walters said, "Bob was a tremendous leader, motivator, and friend. We all had the highest professional regard for him and feel great personal sorrow at his loss. Our deep sympathies are extended to Bob's family."

Parker joined O'Sullivan in 2004 bringing with him 21 years of experience in the Office Products Industry. He was employed by Sanford Corporation (Sharpie Products) from 1983 to 2004, serving as Sanford's President during and throughout the acquisition of Sanford by Newell Rubbermaid. Subsequently, he led several major acquisitions and served on the Board of various organizations, including the WSA, NAWID, NOPA, BPIA, NSSEA, and the WIMA.

Over the years, his personal drive and commitment created a culture of achievement that continues to impact the O'Sullivan organization today. Parker's personal life reflected the same energy and excitement. He lived life to the fullest and had many passions, including golf, family and work. He is remembered for his good humor, sly smile, and terrific energy.

Robert Stewart Parker, 60, of Atlanta and formerly of Chicago, died
August 13, 2006. Mr. Parker was the former President and CEO of
O'Sullivan Industries. He was an avid golfer and belonged to several
clubs including Country Club of the South in Atlanta, Glen Oak Country
Club in Illinois, The Honors Course in Tennessee, and Berkeley Hall in
South Carolina. Bob was a caring husband, father, grandfather, friend,
and motivator. He is survived by his wife, Linda Parker; daughter and
son-in-law, Michelle and Steve Asbell; son, Tim Parker; sons and
daughter-in-law, Brian and Andria Parker, Mike and Sasha Parker;
11 grandchildren; sister, Nancy Buettner; and brother, Earl Parker.
Contributions in his honor may be made to the City of Hope, 1500 East
Duarte Rd., Duarte, CA 91010.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Randy,
Why is it so important to announce to you and the rest of the local world that Bob had passed away? The employees at O'Sullivan were notified shortly after his passing. Did I misunderstand your "headline" or was it meant to show your eagerness to take another shot at the company? I appreciate your stories for the most part as they have kept people informed, I would just like to see you stop the judgmental comments that seem to headline some of the stories. But then again, this is your blog.