Two persons in the manufacturing sector of industrial refrigeration were among the top honorees at the most recent annual conference and exhibition of the International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration (IIAR) in Dallas.

Larry Basel was given an Honorary Life Membership. Jeff Welch was named IIAR Member of the Year for 2008-09.

HONORARY LIFE MEMBERSHIP

Basel is director of safety/risk management in the Midwest region of Dean Foods. In presenting the award, 2008-2009 IIAR Chair Brian Marriott described Basel as “an individual who has made immeasurable contributions to the ammonia refrigeration industry and IIAR. He’s been a tireless worker and a ready volunteer since he joined IIAR.”

Basel is a former board chair (2004-05), executive committee member, and treasurer. Marriott said that Basel’s work has been instrumental in promoting safety.

Marriott also noted that honorary life members are not awarded every year and are reserved for members whose service extends well beyond their term of office and “who have made extraordinary contributions to IIAR and the industry.”

MEMBER OF THE YEAR

In presenting the Member of the Year Award to Welch, Marriott described him as “an enthusiastic and active contributor to the success and growth of IIAR. He has demonstrated extraordinary leadership qualities in several projects that qualify him for this high honor. Many of these projects culminated during the past year.”

Welch is owner and president of Freeze-Pro that sells industrial refrigeration equipment to contractors in Florida, Georgia, and Alabama. He preceded Marriott as IIAR chair serving the 2007-2008 term.

Marriott said Welch “has been a longtime champion of the concept of an Ammonia Refrigeration Foundation. His tireless efforts led to the formation of the foundation in 2007.”

Publication date: 05/11/2009