Industrialist Dov Lautman died on Saturday morning at the age of 77 at a hospital in central Israel. He served as president of the Manufacturers Association of Israel and was awarded the Israel Prize for his life's work. He had been suffering from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) for several years. Associates said that his condition deteriorated in the past few days and he was hospitalized.
Lautman founded Delta Galil Industries Ltd. (Pink Sheets: DELTY; TASE: DELT) and ran the company for many years. He served as president of the Manufacturers Association in 1986-93. Even when he was restricted to a wheelchair because of his illness, he was involved and was a highly respected figure in the business sector. At the same time, he sought to raise awareness of ALS.
Former Minister of Industry Shalom Simhon told "Globes" today, "At the national level, this is the loss of a great Zionist of our time. Dov Lautman knew how to realize a real vision in industry, education, and settlement, especially in the Galilee. Without question, after the death of Eli Hurvitz, Lautman is another great loss to Israeli industry, which he helped create."
Delta Galil CEO Isaac Dabah said, "Today, we all mourn the passing of Dov, who showed us how brilliant business management can be combined with social involvement, Zionism, and the highest public activity. I have been given the privilege of continuing the path of a man who was far more than a businessman, whose every act derived from the love of mankind, a sense of mission, and social understanding."
President Shimon Peres said, "Today a great man passed away, one who devoted his life to serving the people and society of Israel. Everything that he amassed he generously gave to society. He was a genuine pioneer and peacemaker. He established a modern industry, went to the Galilee, invested in industrial centers in Egypt and Jordan, invested in education and high-quality jobs for many generations of young Israelis."
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on November 24, 2013
© Copyright of Globes Publisher Itonut (1983) Ltd. 2013