BARBERTON, Ohio—Ray Slezak, founder of RJS Corp., died July 7. He was 86.
Slezak was working with the company he founded for six days a week up until April of this year, when he became ill.
“Ray Slezak was the quintessential engineer and was awarded 19 patents by the U.S. Patent Office, his first in 1951 and his last in 2014,” said Cheryl Hamilton, president of Akron-based RJS Corp.
“He traveled the world extensively pursuing business for RJS Corp. With his intelligence, creativity and high standard of excellence, Ray left an unforgettable impression with employees, customers and suppliers. The tire industry has lost a true leader and contributor.”
Slezak had a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Akron. In 1957, he founded RJS, a worldwide supplier of supporting equipment to the tire industry. The company will remain with the family.
Slezak was a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and was an avid ham radio operator.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Andrew. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Florence; sons, Frederick Slezak and Arnold Slezak; daughter Cynthia Slezak; brother, William Slezak; and sister, Barbara Berg; as well as five grandchildren.
Calling hours will be held Friday, July 11 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Schermesser Funeral Home, 600 E. Turkeyfoot Lake Road in Akron. Funeral service will be Saturday, July 12 at 10 a.m., at Schermesser.