Hall of Fame
This is your chance to nominate your most admired NCGA past or present member, for induction into the NCGA Hall of Fame. Complete the form below and return to the NCGA office.
The NCGA Hall of Fame is intended to recognize those people who have made significant contributions to the industry and for the association.
Eligibility Requirements:
To nominate a candidate, fill out this nomination form and email it to NCGA staff at [email protected].
Hall of Fame Class of 2023
Francis Becker
Mike Doran
Hall of Fame Class of 2022
Dan Stutte
Jack Moroney
Ron Jedlinski
Hall of Fame Class of 2015
Tim Cotter
Hall of Fame Class of 2013
Ed Koley
Ed represents the 3rd generation in his family business. He started working for his father and grandfather in 1938 while in high school.
After serving in WWII he went to work at the Union Pacific Railroad for 5 years and then went back to work with his father in 1947. He worked both in the factory and then as a salesman on the road. He attended every NCGA meeting from 1970 thru 2006. He was President of the Midwest Guild and became very involved as a result of the untimely death of Don Latondres. Keeping these associations active and growing was his joy.
He is currently the oldest living member of the NCGA at 92 and still the active CEO of his company – Koley's.
Marc Slabbinck
In 1903, exactly 110 years ago, my father's grandfather Hendrik started his own business in Brugge. He gathered experience in other embroidery units before starting his own business on the attic of his parental house. And the first order that he received was from the USA. That was a clear sign from the beginning on that we needed to focus on export, and that especially the USA would play a central role in the development of the Slabbinck company.
In 1963, exactly 60 years later and 50 years ago my father took on the adventure to travel to the USA. He flew over to New York and had his first encounter with what would become a key customer in the USA. Leo Castanguoy told him during that first trip that my father should wear glasses, for those would make him look older. And many many trips would follow after that.
So the Slabbinck story has always been an American one. Nowadays, 55% of our business is done with American customers. Without the USA, I'm convinced that Mirabel, Mathias and myself would not be part of the 4th generation of Slabbinck's running our family business. So i'm sure that you understand what a great pleasure it is for me to be here now as my dad joins other great people in the NCGA Hall of Fame.
On a personal note, I can say that my father has always been “half American”. As a child, I remember that there were always Americans around. And the fishing trips with customers, or I should say friends, are quite legendary for me. Business and friendship have always been just two sides of the same medal. And my dad has genuinely enjoyed his business as much as the friendship that came along with it. Therefore I don't think that there can be a nicer award for my father than this NCGA Hall of Fame award. It is the clear recognition that his efforts are being appreciated. Not only by the many stakeholders that are and have been involved with the Slabbinck company, but also by you. The professionals, the best jury. So I would like to give you all a very warm thank you, straight from the heart. This is a big honor not only for my father, but also for my uncle Dirk, who sends his warmest regards. I can only hope that we, the 4th generation, will honor the great legacy that we have inherited from 4 generations of Slabbinck's. And I would like to say to my dad : congratulations dad and thank you.
Hall of Fame Class of 2011
Elmore W. Tonini
Elmore used to tell his children he was born into the industry. The family home was above the old store and Elmore was born there. His cradle was in the office. He learned to walk following his parents around the store. During the 1937 flood, Elmore and his father stayed in the store until the water reached the second floor. At that point, they gave up the ship and were rescued by a boat from a second floor window.
World War II took Elmore to Europe where he was a pilot in North Africa and Italy. Upon his return, he started full time with the firm. Elmore was an innovator in the catalog industry. Tonini Church Supply started printing their catalog with the Allied Group in 1951. At that time, Elmore would photograph a lot of items himself because the manufacturers did not have color pictures. In 1972, they switched to the American Catalog Group and in 1994 they became an Independent Group publishing the book themselves.
Elmore was president of the NCGA in 1971 and 1972 and was on the Board of Directors from 1963-1973. He grew the company along with his sister Dorothy, brother Bob and 6 of his 11 children into one of the premier church supply houses in the industry. Elmore passed away in May of 2007. He will always be a giant in our hearts, as he was a giant in the industry.
Robert A. Tonini
Robert was also born into the business. After attending St. Xavier High School, Bob joined the Navy. When he came home from the Navy, he married Pat Hennesey and subsequently had 5 children. He came into the business in 1952 and worked in the plating and buffing shop, as well as in picture framing. He told his children that he would go home at night and have a hard time washing the red rouge out of his hair.
The company stopped plating in the late 60's and Bob became the buyer of the retail items. He instituted a numbering system that he learned in the Navy, which was an innovative idea that made the classification of items easier for stocking and receiving orders. As a result, they no longer had duplicate stock numbers for different items.
Bob loved to party and sign "My Old Kentucky Home" at the conventions. He served on the Board of Directors from 1974-1987 and was president of the NCGA in 1982 and 1983. He will always be remembered for riding an elephant into the Annual Convention. Bob passed away in 1988. His laughter and smile will always be missed.
Hall of Fame Class of 2010
Joesphine DeFeo
Josephine DeFeo started in the Church Goods industry as a factory cutter and supervisor for the Hartment Vestment Co. in No. Bergen, NJ. From there, she went to work for Robert O’Toole in New York City, where, again as a supervisor, she also sold some vestments to clergy that she knew. This is what got her started selling vestments. At the same time that she was selling vestments for O’Toole, she would also get some religious articles from WJ Hirten Co. and sell them to churches and clergy while her mother was busy playing bingo in the church hall.
In 1950, she started her own business, DeFeo Studios. For 54 years, Josephine designed and produced high quality vestments that were sold through the NCGA dealer network. In 1994, she moved her business to Florida. A year later, Josephine sold her business to Murphy Cap & Gown and worked with them until her retirement in 2002.
Josephine was forever present at each and every Catalog Publishers Meeting, Eastern Church Goods Guild summer outing and National Convention in January. She was always willing to assist the NCGA to find convention sites and help run the conventions. Josephine oozed of class and dignity, always impeccably dressed. She was the Princess of the NCGA. She is extremely honored to have been inducted into the Hall of Fame and thanks all of her friends from the NCGA for bestowing this honor upon her.
Jackie Krill
Jackie Krill started working at the company her father founded, Franklin X McCormick in the mid 60's. What started out as a part time job to get her out of the house so she could keep her sanity and get a break from the 6 kids at home became an integral part of her life both in business and true friendships. When Franklin McCormick passed away in 1967, Jackie took over full time to truly preserve her sanity as there were now 7 kids in the Krill house.
The NCGA meant more to Jackie than words could possibly convey. You members were like an extended family and she often talked of how fortunate she was to be part of something that touched her life in so many ways. Along with her husband Dick Krill, Jackie enjoyed every aspect of the meetings, the business and most importantly the relationships that were developed over the decades. She would be extremely honored at this induction.
Hall of Fame Class of 2009
Mario Riccini (Past Treasurer)
Mario Riccini has been part the National Church Goods Association for longer than most of you remember. He was literally born into the church goods industry with his father being a partner in Progressive Bronze. He worked for several years at Greco Manufacturing prior to starting Empire Bronze. Since joining the NCGA in the late 1960’s Mario was always a strong promoter of the organization.
Mario is a very intelligent and deep thinking person that has the ability to get right to the core of a problem. He has demonstrated this many times during his years on the Board. He was instrumental in moving the NCGA from the Lincoln Wood to the Oak Brook hotel. He is also responsible for many of the changes and improvements that took place when establishing the foundation for the present day May Catalog meetings.
Louis Steigerwald III (Past President 1997-1998)
Louie became involved in the NCGA when he started at Cathedral Candle in the late 1970’s. He has been a strong promoter of the organization from his early years to the present day. He severed with great distinction from 1990 to 1998 and as president in 97 and 98. Lou can best be described as “a class act”. He is well known as being easy to approach, reasonable and fair. His personal integrity is evident in the way he conducts himself and his company.
Lou brought to the board his experience from serving in other organizations. He tackled many problems while on the board and was very committed to making the NCGA better for its members. He totally revised all of the liability insurance for us and did great work organizing the many technical details. Even after leaving the Board, Lou continues taking on many additional responsibilities, such as writing a big part of the NCGA history for our 100th year book.
Lou has promoted the NCGA by attending almost every function, from formal events such as the January Annual convention, catalogs meetings, summer outings and attending funerals of members all over the country. Lou is a great host and strongly believes that the camaraderie between dealers and suppliers is strengthen by communication. He promotes this belief along with his company by sponsoring many NCGA functions.
Hall of Fame Class of 2008
Arthur Kenedy (Past President 1918-1920)
Joseph Gummersbach (Chairman 1909)
Our knowledge of the founding of the NCGA is very limited. We know the organization emerged from the normal business discussions of friends in the business of publishing Catholic books. Frank Murphy of the John Murphy Co. of Baltimore usually had dinner with Arthur Kenedy during business trips to New York City. Mr. Kenedy had the foresight to realize other companies in this new field should get to know each other and have a forum to discuss mutual problems and learn from each other. After two years of informal meeting a planned dinner at the Catholic Club in New York City was organized for twenty-five participates on February 18, 1909. The first chairman was elected and thus the first recognized president of our current NCGA membership; Mr. Joseph Gummersbach of the B. Herder Book Company took the reigns of our organization. Mr. Kennedy stepped forward in 1918 to accept a two-year commitment as president.
Thus, two of the original members had the visions and were willing to volunteer their time and talents to a new organization that would aid their church and hopefully improve the spiritual lives of their fellow man.
We as current members of the NCGA owe a great deal to the founding members and all early members of our organization.
Hall of Fame Class of 2007
Leo Flynn (Past President)
Leo is the founder and owner of Michigan Church Supply Company and Flynn
Manufacturing Company of Mt. Morris, Michigan.
A description of Leo Flynn is; energy, dedication and enthusiasm.
Leo served on the Board of Directors of the NCGA from 1988 through 1995. He served as President in 1993 and 1994. Fortunately, for the NCGA Leo served as President at a difficult time by addressing and resolving a serious legal matter pertaining to the NCGA.
Leo's dedication brought about the successful 2005 "Old Timers Reunion". His
involvement before, during and after his term on the Board is a testament to his devotion to the NCGA.
A genuine champion of the NCGA and supporter of the Irish cause.
Jim Brennan(Past President)
Jim Brennan owned and managed the Jeweled Cross Company of North Attleboro, MA. Until his recent retirement in August of 2006.
Jim's contributions to the NCGA are many, Jim has the unique distinction of serving on the Board of Directors on two separate terms. 1969 through 1975 and 1983 through 1990. His Presidential years were 1988 and 1989 and an additional year 1990, for a total of 3 years. At the time of the untimely death of Don Latendresse, the Association Secretary, the May catalog meeting was fast approaching and the meeting schedules were not completed. Jim volunteered his time and went to Chicago at his expense and dedicated two days, assisting in the preparation of the meeting schedules. Jim also was instrumental in the organizing of the first May catalog meeting.
The "Manufactures Tour" was developed by Jim. It brought to the dealer the opportunity to tour various suppliers' facilities to view and learn about the manufacture of the supplier's products.
Jim has assisted a number of Association members during difficult times.
To conclude; Jim is truly a champion to the NCGA. Truly dedicated servant of the
NCGA.
Hall of Fame Class of 2006
John Brost (Past President, Past Secretary)
At the age of 22 in 1931 John Brost was asked by his Mother and Aunt to leave Notre Dame University and to manage the John P. Daleiden Company of Chicago, Illinois.
He answered that he wished to become a lawyer and not a seller of “Holy Hardware”.
John goes on to say, what induced him to accept, was the salary of $62.50 weekly.
(These were the days of the great depression) He eventually became part owner of the company, which had been founded in 1872. He went on to establish stores in Denver, Colorado and Houston Texas. He served as president in 1948 and 1949.
As secretary, John guided the association through the first years of the May catalog meetings, a huge challenge. He found a centrally located site, the Marriot Hotel in Cleveland, Ohio that would accommodate the meeting requirements. He developed and implemented the many dealer – supplier meeting schedules. John was a man who answered the challenge well. He was a genuine problem solver and was conscientious of his volunteered duties and earned the everlasting respect of all the membership. John made time to aid many of the members of the association.
He served as executive secretary for nine years. Always dapper in appearance, his trademark was a “bow tie”.
On December 10, 2005 John celebrated his 95th birthday.
David Malhame (Past President, Past Secretary)
Dave is the former owner of the Malhame Vestment Company ofMilford PA. and served as president of the NCGA in 1975 – 1976.
After selling his company in 1996 he entered the “Good Life” of retirement. However the retirement was not long lasting. For he was called upon by the association on short notice, to become the association executive secretary.
Dave and his wife MaryAnn wholeheartedly fulfilled the requirements of the job with an earnest devotion and demonstrated they’re organizational and trouble shooting skills. They served the association well for three years.
Dave was an astute statistics man, which he undoubtedly utilized when preparing and scheduling convention events. He continues to this day as evidenced by the information that he compiled regarding a group fisherman of the industry known as the “Good Guys” that date back to 1977. a best work on: who was there, when was the date, where was the lake and what did it cost.
Walter Maganini would have been very proud of Dave.
Jack Carmody (Past President)
Jack began his working career with the Ganley Company of Providence, Rhode Island in 1956.
Over the years he became a manufacturer’s representative for the Cathedral Plastics Company, Malhame Manufacturing Company, Roman Inc. and others. His wife Barbara and son Paul ably assisted him.
As president of the association in 1979 and 1980 he served diligently and devoted considerable time in Washington DC reviewing and amending the association rules of qualification for membership of a prospective applicant.
A contemporary of Jack once remarked that he spent 22 years in hotel rooms. Jack certainly did the same, He was a traveler of routine staying at the same hotels and motels and was well known to the desk clerks as well as the bartenders.
At conventions of which he attended many Jack always organizes the Super Bowl pool.
He never saw a restaurant or bar bill that he didn't’t like or pick up. One had to be quick at hand when dining with Jack for he had a standard saying “Ill Get It” and he wasn’t kidding.
Don Latendresse (Past President, Past Executive Secretary)
Don served in the U.S. Army during WWII as a combat engineer and was wounded in the first wave of the invasion of Normandy, France.
Early in Don’s career he was employed by the Indiana Bell telephone Company. He later joined the Will & Baumer Candle Company and was subsequently promoted to zone sales manager based in Chicago, Illinois . Upon retiring from the Will & Baumer Candle Company Don succeeded John Brost as the NCGA Executive Secretary.
A very affable gentleman, he was made to order for the job of Executive Secretary, at which he performed with exceptional ability and sincere dedication. His organizational ability was well demonstrated as he arranged and looked after the January conventions and May catalog meetings.
Don was a fatherly figure who was held in high regard by all members of the association. He was a good listener and mentor as evidenced by the many members who sought Don’s advice on industry matters.
Walter Magnani (Past Treasurer)
Walter was the owner of Catholic Statuary Company in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
He served as treasurer of the NCGA for many years. Walter was referred to by John Broast, his devoted friend, as “Money Bags”. He was the NCGA “watchdog” Woe be it!!…to any service organization that erred or dared to insert an overcharge on the bill for an association event.
He was the NCGA reference library on any subject. A specific date, convention, person or event, when you checked it out with Walter you got the accurate information. He was passionate and devoted champion of the association.
Walters’s treasurers reports were brief and unique, in that when asked to submit the treasurers report, He stated; “We have a little bit more this year than we had last year”
The NCGA Hall of Fame is intended to recognize those people who have made significant contributions to the industry and for the association.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must be or have been a member of NCGA
- Must attend or have attended NCGA events
- Must be or have been actively involved in NCGA
- Must demonstrate or have demonstrated a leadership role within the industry
To nominate a candidate, fill out this nomination form and email it to NCGA staff at [email protected].
Hall of Fame Class of 2023
Francis Becker
Mike Doran
Hall of Fame Class of 2022
Dan Stutte
Jack Moroney
Ron Jedlinski
Hall of Fame Class of 2015
Tim Cotter
Hall of Fame Class of 2013
Ed Koley
Ed represents the 3rd generation in his family business. He started working for his father and grandfather in 1938 while in high school.
After serving in WWII he went to work at the Union Pacific Railroad for 5 years and then went back to work with his father in 1947. He worked both in the factory and then as a salesman on the road. He attended every NCGA meeting from 1970 thru 2006. He was President of the Midwest Guild and became very involved as a result of the untimely death of Don Latondres. Keeping these associations active and growing was his joy.
He is currently the oldest living member of the NCGA at 92 and still the active CEO of his company – Koley's.
Marc Slabbinck
In 1903, exactly 110 years ago, my father's grandfather Hendrik started his own business in Brugge. He gathered experience in other embroidery units before starting his own business on the attic of his parental house. And the first order that he received was from the USA. That was a clear sign from the beginning on that we needed to focus on export, and that especially the USA would play a central role in the development of the Slabbinck company.
In 1963, exactly 60 years later and 50 years ago my father took on the adventure to travel to the USA. He flew over to New York and had his first encounter with what would become a key customer in the USA. Leo Castanguoy told him during that first trip that my father should wear glasses, for those would make him look older. And many many trips would follow after that.
So the Slabbinck story has always been an American one. Nowadays, 55% of our business is done with American customers. Without the USA, I'm convinced that Mirabel, Mathias and myself would not be part of the 4th generation of Slabbinck's running our family business. So i'm sure that you understand what a great pleasure it is for me to be here now as my dad joins other great people in the NCGA Hall of Fame.
On a personal note, I can say that my father has always been “half American”. As a child, I remember that there were always Americans around. And the fishing trips with customers, or I should say friends, are quite legendary for me. Business and friendship have always been just two sides of the same medal. And my dad has genuinely enjoyed his business as much as the friendship that came along with it. Therefore I don't think that there can be a nicer award for my father than this NCGA Hall of Fame award. It is the clear recognition that his efforts are being appreciated. Not only by the many stakeholders that are and have been involved with the Slabbinck company, but also by you. The professionals, the best jury. So I would like to give you all a very warm thank you, straight from the heart. This is a big honor not only for my father, but also for my uncle Dirk, who sends his warmest regards. I can only hope that we, the 4th generation, will honor the great legacy that we have inherited from 4 generations of Slabbinck's. And I would like to say to my dad : congratulations dad and thank you.
Hall of Fame Class of 2011
Elmore W. Tonini
Elmore used to tell his children he was born into the industry. The family home was above the old store and Elmore was born there. His cradle was in the office. He learned to walk following his parents around the store. During the 1937 flood, Elmore and his father stayed in the store until the water reached the second floor. At that point, they gave up the ship and were rescued by a boat from a second floor window.
World War II took Elmore to Europe where he was a pilot in North Africa and Italy. Upon his return, he started full time with the firm. Elmore was an innovator in the catalog industry. Tonini Church Supply started printing their catalog with the Allied Group in 1951. At that time, Elmore would photograph a lot of items himself because the manufacturers did not have color pictures. In 1972, they switched to the American Catalog Group and in 1994 they became an Independent Group publishing the book themselves.
Elmore was president of the NCGA in 1971 and 1972 and was on the Board of Directors from 1963-1973. He grew the company along with his sister Dorothy, brother Bob and 6 of his 11 children into one of the premier church supply houses in the industry. Elmore passed away in May of 2007. He will always be a giant in our hearts, as he was a giant in the industry.
Robert A. Tonini
Robert was also born into the business. After attending St. Xavier High School, Bob joined the Navy. When he came home from the Navy, he married Pat Hennesey and subsequently had 5 children. He came into the business in 1952 and worked in the plating and buffing shop, as well as in picture framing. He told his children that he would go home at night and have a hard time washing the red rouge out of his hair.
The company stopped plating in the late 60's and Bob became the buyer of the retail items. He instituted a numbering system that he learned in the Navy, which was an innovative idea that made the classification of items easier for stocking and receiving orders. As a result, they no longer had duplicate stock numbers for different items.
Bob loved to party and sign "My Old Kentucky Home" at the conventions. He served on the Board of Directors from 1974-1987 and was president of the NCGA in 1982 and 1983. He will always be remembered for riding an elephant into the Annual Convention. Bob passed away in 1988. His laughter and smile will always be missed.
Hall of Fame Class of 2010
Joesphine DeFeo
Josephine DeFeo started in the Church Goods industry as a factory cutter and supervisor for the Hartment Vestment Co. in No. Bergen, NJ. From there, she went to work for Robert O’Toole in New York City, where, again as a supervisor, she also sold some vestments to clergy that she knew. This is what got her started selling vestments. At the same time that she was selling vestments for O’Toole, she would also get some religious articles from WJ Hirten Co. and sell them to churches and clergy while her mother was busy playing bingo in the church hall.
In 1950, she started her own business, DeFeo Studios. For 54 years, Josephine designed and produced high quality vestments that were sold through the NCGA dealer network. In 1994, she moved her business to Florida. A year later, Josephine sold her business to Murphy Cap & Gown and worked with them until her retirement in 2002.
Josephine was forever present at each and every Catalog Publishers Meeting, Eastern Church Goods Guild summer outing and National Convention in January. She was always willing to assist the NCGA to find convention sites and help run the conventions. Josephine oozed of class and dignity, always impeccably dressed. She was the Princess of the NCGA. She is extremely honored to have been inducted into the Hall of Fame and thanks all of her friends from the NCGA for bestowing this honor upon her.
Jackie Krill
Jackie Krill started working at the company her father founded, Franklin X McCormick in the mid 60's. What started out as a part time job to get her out of the house so she could keep her sanity and get a break from the 6 kids at home became an integral part of her life both in business and true friendships. When Franklin McCormick passed away in 1967, Jackie took over full time to truly preserve her sanity as there were now 7 kids in the Krill house.
The NCGA meant more to Jackie than words could possibly convey. You members were like an extended family and she often talked of how fortunate she was to be part of something that touched her life in so many ways. Along with her husband Dick Krill, Jackie enjoyed every aspect of the meetings, the business and most importantly the relationships that were developed over the decades. She would be extremely honored at this induction.
Hall of Fame Class of 2009
Mario Riccini (Past Treasurer)
Mario Riccini has been part the National Church Goods Association for longer than most of you remember. He was literally born into the church goods industry with his father being a partner in Progressive Bronze. He worked for several years at Greco Manufacturing prior to starting Empire Bronze. Since joining the NCGA in the late 1960’s Mario was always a strong promoter of the organization.
Mario is a very intelligent and deep thinking person that has the ability to get right to the core of a problem. He has demonstrated this many times during his years on the Board. He was instrumental in moving the NCGA from the Lincoln Wood to the Oak Brook hotel. He is also responsible for many of the changes and improvements that took place when establishing the foundation for the present day May Catalog meetings.
Louis Steigerwald III (Past President 1997-1998)
Louie became involved in the NCGA when he started at Cathedral Candle in the late 1970’s. He has been a strong promoter of the organization from his early years to the present day. He severed with great distinction from 1990 to 1998 and as president in 97 and 98. Lou can best be described as “a class act”. He is well known as being easy to approach, reasonable and fair. His personal integrity is evident in the way he conducts himself and his company.
Lou brought to the board his experience from serving in other organizations. He tackled many problems while on the board and was very committed to making the NCGA better for its members. He totally revised all of the liability insurance for us and did great work organizing the many technical details. Even after leaving the Board, Lou continues taking on many additional responsibilities, such as writing a big part of the NCGA history for our 100th year book.
Lou has promoted the NCGA by attending almost every function, from formal events such as the January Annual convention, catalogs meetings, summer outings and attending funerals of members all over the country. Lou is a great host and strongly believes that the camaraderie between dealers and suppliers is strengthen by communication. He promotes this belief along with his company by sponsoring many NCGA functions.
Hall of Fame Class of 2008
Arthur Kenedy (Past President 1918-1920)
Joseph Gummersbach (Chairman 1909)
Our knowledge of the founding of the NCGA is very limited. We know the organization emerged from the normal business discussions of friends in the business of publishing Catholic books. Frank Murphy of the John Murphy Co. of Baltimore usually had dinner with Arthur Kenedy during business trips to New York City. Mr. Kenedy had the foresight to realize other companies in this new field should get to know each other and have a forum to discuss mutual problems and learn from each other. After two years of informal meeting a planned dinner at the Catholic Club in New York City was organized for twenty-five participates on February 18, 1909. The first chairman was elected and thus the first recognized president of our current NCGA membership; Mr. Joseph Gummersbach of the B. Herder Book Company took the reigns of our organization. Mr. Kennedy stepped forward in 1918 to accept a two-year commitment as president.
Thus, two of the original members had the visions and were willing to volunteer their time and talents to a new organization that would aid their church and hopefully improve the spiritual lives of their fellow man.
We as current members of the NCGA owe a great deal to the founding members and all early members of our organization.
Hall of Fame Class of 2007
Leo Flynn (Past President)
Leo is the founder and owner of Michigan Church Supply Company and Flynn
Manufacturing Company of Mt. Morris, Michigan.
A description of Leo Flynn is; energy, dedication and enthusiasm.
Leo served on the Board of Directors of the NCGA from 1988 through 1995. He served as President in 1993 and 1994. Fortunately, for the NCGA Leo served as President at a difficult time by addressing and resolving a serious legal matter pertaining to the NCGA.
Leo's dedication brought about the successful 2005 "Old Timers Reunion". His
involvement before, during and after his term on the Board is a testament to his devotion to the NCGA.
A genuine champion of the NCGA and supporter of the Irish cause.
Jim Brennan(Past President)
Jim Brennan owned and managed the Jeweled Cross Company of North Attleboro, MA. Until his recent retirement in August of 2006.
Jim's contributions to the NCGA are many, Jim has the unique distinction of serving on the Board of Directors on two separate terms. 1969 through 1975 and 1983 through 1990. His Presidential years were 1988 and 1989 and an additional year 1990, for a total of 3 years. At the time of the untimely death of Don Latendresse, the Association Secretary, the May catalog meeting was fast approaching and the meeting schedules were not completed. Jim volunteered his time and went to Chicago at his expense and dedicated two days, assisting in the preparation of the meeting schedules. Jim also was instrumental in the organizing of the first May catalog meeting.
The "Manufactures Tour" was developed by Jim. It brought to the dealer the opportunity to tour various suppliers' facilities to view and learn about the manufacture of the supplier's products.
Jim has assisted a number of Association members during difficult times.
To conclude; Jim is truly a champion to the NCGA. Truly dedicated servant of the
NCGA.
Hall of Fame Class of 2006
John Brost (Past President, Past Secretary)
At the age of 22 in 1931 John Brost was asked by his Mother and Aunt to leave Notre Dame University and to manage the John P. Daleiden Company of Chicago, Illinois.
He answered that he wished to become a lawyer and not a seller of “Holy Hardware”.
John goes on to say, what induced him to accept, was the salary of $62.50 weekly.
(These were the days of the great depression) He eventually became part owner of the company, which had been founded in 1872. He went on to establish stores in Denver, Colorado and Houston Texas. He served as president in 1948 and 1949.
As secretary, John guided the association through the first years of the May catalog meetings, a huge challenge. He found a centrally located site, the Marriot Hotel in Cleveland, Ohio that would accommodate the meeting requirements. He developed and implemented the many dealer – supplier meeting schedules. John was a man who answered the challenge well. He was a genuine problem solver and was conscientious of his volunteered duties and earned the everlasting respect of all the membership. John made time to aid many of the members of the association.
He served as executive secretary for nine years. Always dapper in appearance, his trademark was a “bow tie”.
On December 10, 2005 John celebrated his 95th birthday.
David Malhame (Past President, Past Secretary)
Dave is the former owner of the Malhame Vestment Company ofMilford PA. and served as president of the NCGA in 1975 – 1976.
After selling his company in 1996 he entered the “Good Life” of retirement. However the retirement was not long lasting. For he was called upon by the association on short notice, to become the association executive secretary.
Dave and his wife MaryAnn wholeheartedly fulfilled the requirements of the job with an earnest devotion and demonstrated they’re organizational and trouble shooting skills. They served the association well for three years.
Dave was an astute statistics man, which he undoubtedly utilized when preparing and scheduling convention events. He continues to this day as evidenced by the information that he compiled regarding a group fisherman of the industry known as the “Good Guys” that date back to 1977. a best work on: who was there, when was the date, where was the lake and what did it cost.
Walter Maganini would have been very proud of Dave.
Jack Carmody (Past President)
Jack began his working career with the Ganley Company of Providence, Rhode Island in 1956.
Over the years he became a manufacturer’s representative for the Cathedral Plastics Company, Malhame Manufacturing Company, Roman Inc. and others. His wife Barbara and son Paul ably assisted him.
As president of the association in 1979 and 1980 he served diligently and devoted considerable time in Washington DC reviewing and amending the association rules of qualification for membership of a prospective applicant.
A contemporary of Jack once remarked that he spent 22 years in hotel rooms. Jack certainly did the same, He was a traveler of routine staying at the same hotels and motels and was well known to the desk clerks as well as the bartenders.
At conventions of which he attended many Jack always organizes the Super Bowl pool.
He never saw a restaurant or bar bill that he didn't’t like or pick up. One had to be quick at hand when dining with Jack for he had a standard saying “Ill Get It” and he wasn’t kidding.
Don Latendresse (Past President, Past Executive Secretary)
Don served in the U.S. Army during WWII as a combat engineer and was wounded in the first wave of the invasion of Normandy, France.
Early in Don’s career he was employed by the Indiana Bell telephone Company. He later joined the Will & Baumer Candle Company and was subsequently promoted to zone sales manager based in Chicago, Illinois . Upon retiring from the Will & Baumer Candle Company Don succeeded John Brost as the NCGA Executive Secretary.
A very affable gentleman, he was made to order for the job of Executive Secretary, at which he performed with exceptional ability and sincere dedication. His organizational ability was well demonstrated as he arranged and looked after the January conventions and May catalog meetings.
Don was a fatherly figure who was held in high regard by all members of the association. He was a good listener and mentor as evidenced by the many members who sought Don’s advice on industry matters.
Walter Magnani (Past Treasurer)
Walter was the owner of Catholic Statuary Company in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
He served as treasurer of the NCGA for many years. Walter was referred to by John Broast, his devoted friend, as “Money Bags”. He was the NCGA “watchdog” Woe be it!!…to any service organization that erred or dared to insert an overcharge on the bill for an association event.
He was the NCGA reference library on any subject. A specific date, convention, person or event, when you checked it out with Walter you got the accurate information. He was passionate and devoted champion of the association.
Walters’s treasurers reports were brief and unique, in that when asked to submit the treasurers report, He stated; “We have a little bit more this year than we had last year”
