Jay Peck, longtime company president of Subaru Industrial Power Products and respected industry veteran, passed away at the age of 59 after a brief and quiet battle with cancer.
Peck began his career in the industry while spending summers during his college years working at Teledyne Total Power’s Power Center outlet store. After graduating from the University of Wisconsin at White Water with a degree in business management, Peck joined Teledyne full time as the Power Center’s branch manager, and at the age of 34, he became the Vice President of Distribution, thus becoming the youngest vice president in Teledyne’s history. He later became Vice President of Sales and Marketing, and he assumed the responsibility for the sale of Robin engines. A few years later, he started Wisconsin Industrial Products, and two years later was chosen to lead a team to plan and open Robin America in Wood Dale, Ill. During his years with Robin America, he served as Vice President of Sales and Marketing and as President. Peck led Robin America to become one of the leading suppliers of small industrial engines.
Peck and his wife Lynn raised three children and were blessed with seven grandchildren. The family established a charitable memorial in his honor with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.
Upon hearing the news of his sudden passing, many in the industry were quick to offer their condolences, prayers and remembrance: “We are heartbroken by the sudden loss of Jay Peck,” said Will Coates, president, Billy Goat Industries. “He was not only the consummate promoter; he was a good friend. Jay had the uncanny ability to light up any room, in any situation, on any continent. Our heartfelt condolences go to his wife Lynn and the good folks of Robin America. Jay will be missed.”