NEW ALBANY, Miss. - Elmer William Saul Jr., retired president of Master-Bilt, passed away on Aug. 21, 2006. He was 77.

Mr. Saul served as general manager of Master-Bilt in 1961, where he was responsible for moving the company from St. Louis to its current home in New Albany. When Standex International bought Master-Bilt in 1971, Mr. Saul was promoted to president of Master-Bilt and leader of the Standex Foodservice Group. He aided in the acquisition of several other companies into Standex International, including Federal Industries and BKI, which are still part of the group today.

He retired as president of Master-Bilt and the head of Standex Foodservice Group in 1991.

"For those of us fortunate enough to have worked with Saul, we remember his integrity and loyalty," said Cheri Hobson, Key Customer Group leader.

"Master-Bilt and Standex certainly owe a great deal to Elmer Saul and his leadership. His contributions laid the foundation for the success we now have," said Duane Stockburger, vice president of Standex Food Service Group. Mr. Saul served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He is survived by his wife Nancy Saul; daughter Stephanie (Walt) Bogdanich; sons Kurt (Beth) and Eric (Karen); and five grandchildren.

Memorials may be made to the New Albany Presbyterian Church or to a charity of the donor's choice.

Publication date: 09/18/2006