KENILWORTH, N.J. — Bernard (Bernie) S. Speckhart, White Conveyors chairman and chief executive officer (CEO) died Sept. 9, 2018.
“Bernard, who was known as Bernie, was a true leader and innovative inventor in garment and linen material handling solutions,” says White Conveyors.
“His patented conveyor designs revolutionized the industry. Under Bernie’s direction, over 100,000 conveyors have been installed in the United States and throughout the world,” it notes.
In 1949, he graduated with a B.S. in mechanical engineering from Newark College of Engineering (now New Jersey Institute of Technology) located in Newark, N.J.
Speckhart joined White Machine Company in 1954 under the tutelage of his father, Stephen Speckhart, after having served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War.
“From the very beginning,” Whites notes, “Bernie’s vision was to design cutting-edge conveyor systems to help companies increase production and save labor. In 1984, White Machine established White Conveyors, and full ownership was transferred to him from his father.”
In 2008, the company says, “Under Bernie’s leadership, White acquired Speed Check Conveyor, located in Decatur, Ga., and strengthened the commercial and industrial laundry divisions of the company.
“Bernie spent a total of 64 years at the family business. In addition to his esteemed professional career, Bernie was a devout member of the Catholic church, served the Boy Scouts of America, and actively volunteered in the community.
“A true family man,” White relates, “Bernie is survived by his wife, M. Lorraine Speckhart, seven devoted children, 22 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and a large and loving extended family.”
Several of his children hold key positions at the company. In 2014, his daughter Mary L. Speckhart was named president of White and Speed Check. Bernie’s sons, B. Stephen and John J., currently serve as vice presidents.
Mary Speckhart says: "The loss of our beloved father and company leader is profound. He will be remembered by the many who loved him as a kind and generous man who cared deeply for his family.”
Funeral services for Mr. Speckhart were held Sept. 17. The family asks that donations be sent to: E.W.T.N. (Eternal World Television Network) 5817 Old Leeds Road, Irondale, Ala. 35210-2164; www.ewtn.com or The Immaculate Conception Seminary, at Seton Hall University, 400 South Orange Ave., South Orange, N.J. 07079.
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