Fred M. Singer 1926-2009

September 2009, Shelton, CT
It is with great sadness that we report the passing of Fred M. Singer at age 83. Fred was an icon of the flexible packaging industry during his long career. Originally from New York City and a 40 year resident of Fairfield, CT. Fred received his Bachelor of Chemical Engineering degree in 1955 from Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn. He held management positions with St Regis Paper, Standard Polymers Inc, Polymer Industries Inc., Morton International and Mica Corporation. At Mica Corporation he was marketing manager from 1982 until his retirement in 2006.

At the height of his career, Fred was chosen to receive the 1995 TAPPI Polymers, Laminations and Coatings Division Technical Award. This award, accompanied by the Samuel Zweig Prize of $1,000, is given in recognition of outstanding contributions to the industry’s technology.

TAPPI, based in Atlanta, GA, is the world’s leading technical association for paper and related industries. The Polymers, Laminations and Coatings Division, now known as PLACE is focused on the use of polymers, laminations, adhesives, coatings and extrusion in paper, foil and plastic packaging.

A TAPPI member from 1968 until 2006, Fred had been active in the Extrusion Coating Committee and Health Care Packaging Committee. He contributed to the updating of test methods and the organization of various panel discussions, short courses, symposia and publications. In addition, he published two articles in the industry periodical, Paper, Film & Foil Converter, and presented papers at numerous TAPPI conferences, symposia, and short courses.

In addition to his TAPPI activities, Fred was a member of the Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP), a member of the Flexible Packaging Association, a participant at various Milprint seminars, and a featured speaker at several Western Michigan University conferences.

Fred was a friend to many, a loyal employee and a role model and mentor to countless young professionals. His impact on Mica Corporation, TAPPI, and our industry in general will be evident for many years to come.

Fred is survived by his devoted daughters, Rona Singer of Bronxville, NY, Joann Tyborowski and her husband Paul of Trumbull, CT and his adored grandchildren Melissa and Christopher Tyborowski.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Disease.