The baking industry is saddened to hear of the passing of Joe Schwebel, president of Schwebel Baking Co., Youngstown, Ohio. Schwebel was 73.

“The entire baking industry has lost a great leader and friend,” says American Bakers Association (ABA) president and CEO Robb MacKie. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Barbara, Paul, Alyson, Lee and the rest of the Schwebel family.”

A leader of his company, Schwebel was an ABA board member from 1994 to 2010. One of his many achievements on the board was leading the formation of the Grain Foods Foundation (GFF), an education foundation dedicated to promoting the health benefits of grain-based foods. He also was active in a number of ABA committees including the human resources committee.

“Joe was not only held in the highest professional respect, he was a great friend to so many people,” MacKie adds. “Everyone who met and knew Joe felt blessed for the opportunity.”

Services took place July 25 at Temple El Emeth in Youngstown.