The Sherwin-Williams Company announced with great sadness that Lead Director John M. Stropki passed away unexpectedly on May 11, 2019 at the age of 68.
Mr. Stropki was elected to the Sherwin-Williams Board of Directors in July 2009 and had served as Lead Director since April 2015. He also served as a member of the Board's Compensation and Management Development Committee and its Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. As former Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc., Mr. Stropki brought significant management, technical, manufacturing, financial and leadership expertise to the Board. His 41 years at Lincoln Electric also provided him with extensive knowledge of employee development and engagement, as well as important perspectives in leading and operating an industrial business across diverse global end markets.
"All of us at Sherwin-Williams are deeply saddened by the sudden and unexpected passing of our colleague and friend, John Stropki," said Sherwin-Williams Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, John G. Morikis. "John was a dedicated and engaged Board member and a trusted advisor. His prudent counsel and extensive business acumen helped to make us a better company in many ways and will have a lasting impact. We will greatly miss his wisdom and guidance. The entire Sherwin-Williams family extends our deepest condolences to John's wife, Liz, and the Stropki family."