Kenneth Fox, the founder of flexible packaging maker Fox Packaging, died April 17 at age 91.
In a news release, officials with Fox Packaging in McAllen, Texas, said Fox was "a true pioneer in the packaging industry." They added that his "incredible journey, unrelenting dedication and unmatched commitment to excellence has left an enduring legacy."
Fox launched the company in the mid-1960s. At the time, he was a burlap and mesh bag salesman based in Kansas City, Mo., and selling to a territory that included North Dakota, Florida and Texas. After spending a lot of time on the road away from his wife and four children, Fox moved his family to Texas and started manufacturing packaging on his own.
The initial company was named Kenneth Fox Supply Co. It used six sewing machines and was located in the rear of a melon shed. Officials said that Fox's entrepreneurial spirit "allowed him to identify niche markets and discover solutions to problems not yet realized." They added that "the openness and acceptance of the Texas produce industry in those days gave him the opportunity and resources he needed to get his start."
Officials said that Fox emphasized the importance of family and relationships. "Throughout his career, [Fox] remained guided by the principles of integrity, innovation and family," they added.
Fox is survived by his wife, Elaine, as well as his four children, 10 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. Fox's sons Keith and Aaron and grandsons Lucas, Jacob, Dylan and Noah continue to work for the company.
Fox was buried April 19. A future memorial service is being planned.
Fox Packaging makes flexible packaging for a range of markets, including fresh produce. Officials said the firm's Fox Fresh Mesh product line blends style, function and sustainability to meet the needs of retailers, brand owners and consumers.