Longtime Plant Expert Mike Alesia Passes On

Michael J. Alesia, an executive with the Roscoe Co., Chicago, who retired in 2010 after 31 years’ service with the company and the industry as an active member of UTSA, passed away on Oct. 31.

Alesia worked as a dock supervisor for F.W. Means in Chicago before joining Roscoe in 1979, according to Roscoe President Jim Buik. He rose through the ranks and contributed in a number of areas, including updating Roscoe’s production performance standards. He also implemented the industry’s Skill Standards and Certification Program while serving on a task force for UTSA, which was blended with TRSA in 2008. “Through Mike’s dedication, Roscoe became accredited as a Skills Standard Certification Site in 1995, and he received the Champion of Skills and Certification Program Award from UTSA in 1996,” Buik said. “The program paved the way for Roscoe to become one of the first laundries in the nation to become ISO certified.”

Alesia was active for many years on UTSA’s Plant Operations Committee and Steering Committee as well. He was a graduate of the Executive Management Institute (EMI) a four-year industry leadership program now sponsored by TRSA. He also facilitated Roscoe’s $4.5 million plant consolidation and upgrade in 2009.

Buik cited Alesia’s ability to mentor fellow employees as a key strength. “Throughout Mike’s career at Roscoe, he worked diligently to hire, train and promote team members, helping them achieve what they never thought they were capable of,” Buik said. “Many owe their success at Roscoe to his stewardship. Even after his retirement, Mike could be found at the company picnic, holiday luncheon or Roscoe’s annual 20 Year Club dinner. Mike had many friends at Roscoe who will miss his friendship and bigger-than-life persona.”

Survivors include daughters Michelle (Anthony) Antonson; Nicole Reichman; Anjanette (Steve) Nunemaker; and a son Joseph (Diana); a sister Judith (Gene) England; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife, Cathie Loving, and a brother, Ralph.

A chapel service was held Thursday, Nov. 5, at River Woods Funeral Home, 205 S. River Road, Des Plaines, IL  60016.