Donald Moline, former president/owner of Moline Machinery LLC, died March 9, 2019 at the age of 88, from Alzheimer’s complications. Don started in the baking industry in 1954 working for his father, Harry Moline, in the family equipment business, Moline, Inc. He became general manager in 1963 after Harry’s sudden death and developed the business into a leading manufacturer of automated sheeting lines and tooling for retail and industrial bakers.

Moline, Inc was sold to The Pillsbury Company In 1972 and run by Don as a Division of Pillsbury until 1991. During this period Moline diversified into the industrial frying market for fresh and pre-fried donuts. As lead investor, Don purchased the business back from Grand Metropolitan PLC in 1991 and rebranded the company as Moline Machinery. In 1995, Moline purchased the equipment division of DCA from Kerry Ingredients and expanded into global markets with high volume cake and yeast raised donut systems.

Moline transitioned the business to his son Gary upon retirement and Moline Machinery remains an independent company now run by 3^rd and 4^th generation family. He was a proud ASB member for over 50 years.