In my previous post I referenced Steve Jobs quote about the Misfits, the Crazy One and the Rebels. Well, today I’m going to introduce you to the Rebel.
According to the federal reserve, the 1981 – 1982 recession was the worst downturn in the US since the Great Depression. During this time unemployment reached nearly 11%. High interest rates put pressure on sectors of the economy like manufacturing and construction. Who would start a manufacturing company in that kind of environment? The Rebel, Coleman Smith!
He founded Addison Fabricators in August of 1981. They build steel pressure vessels, tanks and lumber treating equipment. These vessels and tanks have been built for use all over the world including Siberia Russia. One of the greatest treasures of my profession are the relationships that I’m able to build. In the summer of 1990, I met Coleman for the first time and began a relationship and friendship that changed my life. That relationship is still ongoing with his wife Susan and daughters Amanda, Megan, Janice and Joely. Also included in that is Judd Pheny who is Susan’s brother and Coleman’s brother-in-law. Judd began his career at Addison in 1981 and was along Coleman’s side as they developed this iconic company in the steel fabricating world.
Sadly, we lost Coleman last November. Coleman was this larger-than-life figure who never feared failure only regret. In that over 40 years of business there were numerous obstacles and challenges. The economy, capital needs and requirements and always the need for skilled workers. The fearlessness that Coleman possessed enabled him to work through all those obstacles when most people could not.
I admired that fearlessness and willingness to take that risk against all odds because of the belief and convictions he had in himself. Coleman was a great man of faith who loved his wife Susan and daughters and never took credit for the success of Addison. To quote Steve Jobs “the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do.” Here’s to you Coleman! You changed my life and so many others as well.
Your friend, Pat
