Lincoln Electric Mourns Loss of Former Executive
Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. (Cleveland, OH) mourns the loss of John M. Stropki, Jr., their former chairman, president and chief executive officer who passed away on Saturday, May 11, 2019, at the age of 68. “On behalf of the board of directors and the entire Lincoln Electric family worldwide, we extend our deepest condolences to John’s family at this difficult time,” stated Christopher L. Mapes, the chairman, president and chief executive officer of the company. “John was not only an icon at our company, but was one of the most respected leaders in our industry. His relentless passion for our company, our customers and the industry left an indelible mark that will continue to live on forever.”
Stropki had a successful career with the company for 41 years and served as their seventh chief executive officer from 2004 to 2012. He started as a summer intern while attending college and rose through the sales organization to become the executive vice president and president/ North America in 1996. He joined the board of directors in 1998 and was promoted to chairman, president and chief executive officer in 2004. During his tenure, he transformed operations, oversaw numerous acquisitions and product innovations, expanded their global footprint and ultimately positioned the company to be a clear leader in the industry while staying true to their mission and values.
Stropki served on the boards of the Sherwin-Williams Company, Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, Inc. and Rexnord Corporation, and also dedicated his time and efforts to support numerous industry associations and non-profit organizations, including University Hospitals. He earned a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from Purdue University and an MBA degree from Indiana University.
