In Memoriam

It is with sadness that TCATA reports on the passing of the following members in our industry-

With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, we announce the sudden passing of former TCATA Board Member William “Bill” Brooks, age 62, who left us far too soon on November 12th. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend, Bill was the heartbeat of every room he entered and the light in the lives of all who knew him.

Bill had the unique ability to make anyone feel like they were the most important person in the world. His infectious laugh, quick wit, and sense of humor could turn even the most ordinary moments into something extraordinary. He was also the instigator, the troublemaker, and the one who always got caught but never got in trouble because he could charm his way out of any punishment with his squinty-eyed grin and contagious giggle. That was Bill. He loved telling a joke, sharing a funny story, or simply offering words of encouragement, as his presence was one of warmth, laughter, and love.

To his siblings, nieces, nephews, and friends, Bill was a constant source of joy and support. His loyalty and generosity knew no bounds, and he was always the first to offer help (plowing snow at every house he could see that needed a hand), lend a listening ear, or crack a joke to lighten the mood. He truly was the best friend to all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy is not just in the love he gave, but in the laughter and memories he created.

Bill began his work life in sales at McGregor Sand Knit in Berlin. This was the start of his solid foundation and after a few years, Alliance Laundry Systems/UniMac was then his career home until retirement in May 2022. Throughout his time at Alliance, his sales travels and work relationships turned into great friendships near and far.

Bill dedicated 36 years of his busy life to the Berlin Fire Department, serving as Captain. The Berlin department became a huge part of his ever-extending family. He used his position in the laundry industry to make sure fire departments nationwide had the right laundry equipment for cleaning fire gear.

Family was his life. Surviving him are his wife, Amy; sons, Steven (Melanie), Michael (AJ); and his cherished granddaughters Everly and Hallie, all who brought him endless happiness. In place of flowers, the family asks that you make a monetary donation to the Berlin Volunteer Fire Department or St. John Lutheran Church or School.

Rest in peace, Bill; you were truly one of a kind, and we will miss you more than words can express. Your love, humor, and kindness will forever live on in our hearts. Your contributions to TCATA will always be remembered.

Paul "Oz" Osterhage, co-founder of Fabritec International, passed away at the age of 71 on January 1, 2023, following a battle with esophageal cancer. "Paul started with my dad, Al Jordan, in founding Fabritec in 1977," noted John "J.J." Jordan, President of Fabritec International. Osterhage was a graduate of the University of Cinncinati and remained a lifelong diehard fan of his alma mater, as well as the NFL Bengals and MLB Reds. Jordan added, "Many of our customers knew Paul from seminars, conventions and customer relations. We have been preparing for any complications but he is still someone not easy to replace." Osterhage is survived by his wife, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and his siblings. Memorials may be made to the St. Leo's Food Pantry c/o St. Leo the Great Church, 2573 St. Leo Place, Cinncinati, OH 45225.

David James Smith, 62, of Burkburnett, TX, passed away on June 30, 2024. Dave had a 40 year career in sales management for several companies in the industry. Dave held management positions with The Laundry List, Lavatec, and Consolidated Laundry Machinery before becoming Vice President of Sales & Marketing with Softrol Systems, Inc. of Acworth, GA. In recent years, he managed the sales of Softrol’s various product lines, and increased the market penetration of their automated material handling systems. Dave is survived by his wife, Wendy, his daughters, sons, and grandchildren.

Union Drycleaning Products is sad to announce the passing of Jack Sam Burnett, Jr., age 56, October 5, 2024, after a courageous battle with cholangiocarcinoma. Throughout his career at Union Drycleaning Products, Jack dedicated himself wholeheartedly, forging lifelong friendships and leaving a lasting impact on those he worked with. Jack was a devoted husband to his wife Kristin, an adoring father, and a proud grandfather. After a year-long, hard-fought battle with cancer, Jack is now at peace, free from pain, and reunited with his beloved mother in heaven. His strength, love, and warmth will forever be remembered by those who knew and loved him. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation.