R.D. Abbott's Fred Hammers retires after 50-year career

CERRITOS, Calif.—R.D. Abbott Co. Inc. has had a number of exceptional industry veterans call the company their own since the materials science, engineering and distribution company began in 1948.

Now it celebrates the career of another, Manfred "Fred" Hammers, who retired Dec. 31 after more than five decades in the rubber, latex and adhesives industries. He spent the last 18 years with R.D. Abbott.

"Fred has forever solidified himself as a family man, a gentleman, a professional, a wealth of knowledge, but most importantly as a friend," said Jerry McCall, R.D. Abbott vice president of sales and marketing. "While I'm sad to see to Fred go, I'm extremely grateful for the years I've had working and learning from him."

Hammers most recently served with the 62-person material science, engineering and distribution firm as a senior account manager, and before that as a technical sales representative. He also spent 14 years with Bayer, now Lanxess.

His knowledge and character were highlighted by colleagues.

"He develops great relationships with customers that last for years," said Sandra Ziebell, western sales manager.

Hammers earned a Rubber Technology Diploma from the Chemistry College at Bayer in Leverkusen, Germany, and has a bachelor's in business administration with a concentration in industrial management.

Like many others in the R.D. Abbott lineage who have prioritized continuing education, Hammers held positions within the Los Angeles Rubber Group.

And for nearly his entire career in the rubber industry, his wife of 56 years, Margarete, has been by his side.

He is fluent in both German and English, but his co-workers say he speaks from the heart.

"In all my experience with Fred, he never once served himself first. Everyone else's needs always came before his own," said Jeff Bahash, director of supply chain.

And his reputation extends far beyond R.D. Abbott.

"Fred is a man of exceptional character and is well-respected by customers, competitors and fellow employees," said Scott Kearns, principal at ElastaPro Silicone Sheeting L.L.C., who himself is a former R.D. Abbott executive.

Still others cited Hammers' honesty and hard work.

"He teaches," said Rick Ziebell, R.D. Abbott technical fellow and vice president of technology. "That requires respect for those you serve."