Julius J. Vargo

VARGO has announced the passing of company founder Julius James Vargo at age 83.

Julius and Mary Ann Vargo, central Ohio natives, started Vargo Associates in 1971 in Columbus, Ohio, to meet the rising demand for efficient, cost-effective materials handling equipment for local and national businesses. In 1986, son Michael joined the company as territory sales manager. In January 2001, Julius handed the reigns of the company to Michael, who became the company's second president, and Julius assumed the role of company CEO and chairman.

Throughout his career, Vargo was active in industry organisations, such as the Material Handling Equipment Organization. He also had a passion for giving and was involved in many local charitable organisations. Julius was active in the Ohio State Alumni Club, the Buckeye Club and was a member of the American Quarter Horse Association.

When they started Vargo Companies, Julius and Mary Ann saw Columbus as a major national distribution hub and identified a growing need for materials handling expertise. They wanted to create a company that would serve as a national leader for warehousing, fulfilment and distribution solutions. Julius Vargo built the company's foundation on a strong commitment to customer service and innovative solutions and technologies.

"Since my parents founded this company, we have developed a strong and loyal customer base, many of which have been with VARGO from the beginning," says Michael Vargo. "The values that Julius instilled in the company - to serve customers and continually innovate to come up with the best solutions we can for our clients - remain a strong part of our organisation. We are proud of what he built, and we know that the legacy he leaves with our company and the impact he had on the materials handling industry will not be forgotten."