Glidewell Laboratories issued the following statement Dec. 7, 2009, on the passing of Robert E. Grice Jr., COO:
With great sadness and heavy hearts, Glidewell Laboratories today mourns the loss of Robert E. Grice Jr., Chief Operating Officer. A esteemed businessman, trusted colleague, devoted husband, loving father and loyal friend, Rob's leadership and passion for life will be dearly missed.
Rob passed away on Dec. 6, 2009, after a tragic motorcycle accident on Ortega Highway near Lake Elsinore, Calif. A man with little fear and much laughter to share, nearly 1,000 gathered to celebrate his life on Dec. 9, 2009, at Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Newport Beach. Friends, family, community members and co-workers past and present came together to honor a man who was deeply loved and highly respected.
A Newport Beach resident and San Diego native, Rob leaves behind a legacy that will not be forgotten. Hired as CFO in 2004 and promoted to COO in May 2009, Rob shared with the company his more than 20 years of financial experience. This included executive level positions at both startups and Fortune 500 Companies in technology, retail and manufacturing. Rob was also a CPA with 10 years public accounting experience at KPMG Peat Marwick, LLC, and Ernst & Young.
Rob's tenure at the lab was brief, but the imprint he leaves behind is long lasting. A man with foresight and dedication, he was instrumental in the orchestration of many infrastructures that will ensure Glidewell's success, both present and future. This includes Rob's focus on investment in digital manufacturing and CAD/CAM technology, which have become the standard of quality for dental laboratory technology. Rob was also responsible for the implementation of the company's Information Technology group, established as he saw an increased need for improved software and reporting systems.
The Glidewell family will forever remember Rob as a man with a soft demeanor and clear vision for growth. The legacy he leaves behind at Glidewell Laboratories will never be forgotten.
"There is a link that death cannot sever," Jim Glidewell, President and CEO of Glidewell Laboratories, said in a company-issued e-mail on December 6. "Friendship and remembrance last forever."
Rob was a graduate of California State Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo (BS, 1982). He was 50 years old and is survived by wife Cathy and daughters Nicole and Shelley.
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