White Conveyors Chairman/CEO Passes On
Bernard “Bernie” Speckhart, the longtime chairman and CEO of White Conveyors Inc. recently passed away after dedicating 64 years to the family business, according to a news release. In that time, he oversaw numerous patented conveyor-design innovations, as well as the installation of more than 100,000 conveyors in the U.S. and worldwide.
“The loss of our beloved father and company leader is profound,” said President Mary Speckhart. “He will be remembered by the many who loved him as a kind and generous man who cared deeply for his family. My father was dedicated to the success of White, as well as to each and every member of our extended White family. Bernie’s vision, leadership and generosity will be missed immensely. But his legacy will live on for generations to come.”
After service in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, Bernie began his career in 1954 when he joined his father, Stephen Speckhart, in the company then known as White Machine Co. From the outset, Bernie’s vision was to design cutting-edge conveyor systems to help companies boost productivity and save labor.
In 1984, White Machine established White Conveyors, and ownership of the company transferred from Stephen to Bernie, the release said. In 2008, under Bernie’s leadership, White Conveyors acquired Speed Check Conveyor, Decatur, GA, thus strengthening the commercial and industrial laundry divisions of the company.
Today, several of Bernie’s children hold key positions in the company. Mary has served as president of White Conveyors and Speed Check since 2014. Sons B. Stephen and John J. currently serve as vice presidents.
In addition to his work for White Conveyors, Bernie was a devout member of the Catholic Church, the release said. He also volunteered with the Boy Scouts of America and other community organizations.
Bernie received a B.S. degree in mechanical engineering in 1949 from the Newark College of Engineering (now New Jersey Institute of Technology) in Newark, NJ.
He passed away on Sept. 9. Survivors include his wife, M. Lorraine Speckhart, seven children, 22 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and many extended family members.