Ray Roper, former president of the Printing Industries of America (PIA) passed away on June 15 at the age of 64. Roper, who suffered a fatal heart attack following his morning run, served as PIA president from 1987 to 2002. Under his leadership, the PIA underwent a period of growth and expansion, including: the consolidation with the Graphic Arts Technical Foundation (GATF); the launch of the Graphic Arts Information Network (GAIN) portal, and the formation of the Digital Printing Council and E-business Council; the purchase of the PIA headquarters building in Alexandria, VA; the establishment of relationships with international printing organizations; and much more.
“Our industry suffered a great loss with Ray's passing,” says Michael Makin, PIA president and CEO. “His contributions to PIA and the association community were substantial.”
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Roper is survived by his wife Judy, three sons (Greg, Mark, and Doug), and four grandchildren. The family has established a foundation for underprivileged children in his name; those wishing to make a contribution can do so to: The Ray Roper Memorial Scholarship Fund, Bank of Lancaster, Attention Joy Allen, PO Box 1869, Kilmarnock, VA 22484.