The recent passing of John Reib, founder of Conair Inc., will rightfully bring accolades from many people about his significant contributions to plastics industry equipment technology. John was a pioneer and a visionary. He was also a significant industry leader in other ways.
As a board member of the Society of the Plastics Industry Inc. in the 1980s, John was the leader in the association's effort to reform the nation's product liability laws. Similarly, he was an early and enthusiastic supporter of the National Plastics Museum as well as many other organizations and efforts designed to boost the prominence of the plastics industry.
But, I will remember John the most as one of the nicest gentlemen I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. His enthusiasm for life and his genuine caring about other people was contagious. A two minute conversation with John boosted your own optimism and made you want to go out and do something nice for someone else.
John Reib's legacy to the plastics industry was enormous. His legacy as a human being was even greater for those who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Lew Freeman
Arlington, Va.