My heart goes out to Niki and the rest of the Rapattoni family. Andy was a true legend in this industry. In my post “42” I talked about how long Andy and Niki have kept the company going (since 1975!). As an entrepreneur you can’t get any better inspiration than what Andy and Niki have created.
And his legacy will continue. I think Tom Beede in the recent press release said it best…
” In recent years I have worked closely with the new generation of leadership at Rapattoni, and it is evident they will carry on his proud tradition. His wife, Niki, says that she has lost her lion. I say that we have lost the industry’s Statue of Liberty and guiding light. No one can replace him; we can only hope to treat one another as kindly as Andy treated all of us.”
We’ve all lost a lion. RIP Andy.
Well said. Thank you for the post Greg. Rest well and God Bless you iconic lion…
A fine tribute, Greg.
Anyone who has been in the industry for any length of time knew Andy either in person or by reputation – yes, a lion, a light, and an all-around decent human being.
Personally I will never forget how bringing Magic in to the association where I was working in the early 90’s revolutionized…everything! His impact will continue to resonate among us for many years to come.
My sympathies Niki and to the entire and extended Rapattoni family. Rest in peace, Andy.
I met Andy in 1985 and he was such a class act – and remained a class act through every year that I knew him. Andy could be trusted to always give you a straight answer, help when you needed help, and was always a leader and innovator. Most of all, Andy was a terrific person. The industry has lost a true leader and lion, and his loss is felt by so many of us. RIP Andy.