I was very saddened to learn of the passing away of Jack Eberspacher, Ag Retailers Association. Cindy and I knew Jack first when he led what is now the National Sorghum Producers. We’ve had the opportunity to interview him and share good times and fellowship many times and he will be sorely missed. Here’s a statement by ARA:
Jack Eberspacher, president and chief executive officer of the Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA), died peacefully in his sleep on July 5, 2009 at the Inova Cameron Glen Care Center in Reston, Virginia. Eberspacher was out on indefinite medical leave from ARA after a diagnosis of cancer in late April of this year.
“ARA and the industry lost a dynamic leader and true visionary,” said ARA Chairman Ken Manning of Wilbur-Ellis Company. “Jack worked tirelessly to build this organization into the strong voice for agricultural retailers and distributors we have today in the nation’s Capitol. He always stressed the importance of ARA listening to its members and providing value to those members. Due to his efforts, we have an experienced and very capable team at ARA who are committed to seeing Jack’s and the Board of Director’s vision for the organization fulfilled. ARA has a solid foundation in place that will only get stronger through the active involvement of its members and the industry.”
Here’s a statement (pdf) from NSP:
“Jack was our colleague and dear friend,” said Tim Lust, NSP CEO. “His leadership carried this organization both through rough patches and tremendous growth. He cast a remarkable vision for NSP and never let the organization stray from its farmer members and the basics.”
Friends of Jack Eberspacher have set up an educational trust for his children. Please make checks payable to the “Sam and Maggie Eberspacher Educational Trust.” Memorials may be mailed to:
Bank of America, N.A. c/o Carolyn F. Grant-Suite 8300 Greensboro Drive Suite 500 McLean, VA 22102
A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, July 11, at 2:30 p.m., at the Vienna Presbyterian Church in Vienna, Virginia. A reception will be held at the church immediately following the service. The church is located at 124 Park Street, NE. Click here for driving directions and parking locations near the church. Those wishing to attend the memorial service can obtain more information about travel and lodging here.