Craig Lampe, a highly respected figure in the flooring industry who held leadership positions in both manufacturing and distribution, died on January 17, after a prolonged battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 62.

Lampe worked in the flooring business for 33 years, most recently as a vice president for Wanke Cascade. Prior to his retirement in 2003 he headed the Portland Ore.-based distributor's sales and marketing team for 25 years. Previously he was western regional sales manager for Congoleum Corp. He was also active in flooring associations nationwide.

"Craig was an inspiration to all of us at the company and especially the sales team," commented Wanke president and ceo Brian Radditz. "At our annual managers' retreat last month, we created the 'Craig Lampe Achievement Award,' an annual honor given to one salesperson who demonstrated the highest standards of sales excellence. Craig's positive influence lives on."

A graduate of Westminster College in Pennsylvania, Lampe served his country in the military during the Vietnam War. He is survived by his wife Jan, son Stewart, stepdaughter Jennifer, stepson Jeff, sister Allyson, brother Bruce, stepbrothers Bill and Larry, stepsister Pat, stepmother Pauline, and five grandchildren.

The family has asked that remembrances be sent to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, 2141 Rosecrans Avenue, #7000, El Segundo, CA 90245 orPanCAN.com.