January 26th, 2009

Speed Queen's Rick Case, a well-known and well-respected member of the laundry industry, entered retirement Jan. 16 after 40 years in the business. Most recently, Case served as Midwestern regional sales manager for the brand.

"I am sure that those of you who have had the opportunity to work with Rick have benefited from his wisdom, enthusiasm and candor," said William Bittner, Speed Queen national sales manager. "In his 40-year career, Rick has touched the lives of so many people and made countless positive contributions to our industry. Rick has been instrumental in my career development and I will truly miss having him on my team," Bittner added.

Case started with Speed Queen on Jan. 22, 1968 as a factory service representative. After completing this initial training assignment, he joined the ranks of Speed Queen's commercial sales organization. Throughout his career, Case held a variety of sales positions within Alliance Laundry Systems and always produced excellent results.

He also has been publicly recognized for substantial contributions to the laundry industry. In 1992, the Textile Care Allied Trades Association recognized Case with a Distinguished Service Award for his outstanding service as a member of their board of directors between 1986 and 1992. In 1994, the Coin Laundry Association presented him with a Leadership Award in recognition and appreciation of his outstanding leadership in furthering the welfare and interest of the self-service laundry and dry clean industry.