John T. Jankowiak, retired president and CEO of Great Lakes Orthodontics Ltd,Tonawanda, NY, died August 3, 2011. Jankowiak, who had served as thecompany’s chairman of the board since 2001, joined Great Lakes in 1975and became president in 1989.
Great Lakes credits Janowiak with expanding the company and itsinternational reach. He also founded the company’s employee-operatedChristmas Families Fund. Organized by employee volunteers, the fundannually provides toys, clothing, and food for families in need duringthe holidays.
“John truly cared about our employees,” said James R. Kunkemoeller,president and CEO. “Each morning, he made it his personal mission togreet each employee by first name, and always had an open-door policy.He was frequently sought out for his candor and business insight.”
