Wallace F. “Wally” Taylor of Shelton, Wash., died Sept. 22, with his wife Julia Taylor at his side. He was 84. Founder and previous owner of W. F. Taylor Co. Inc., “Wally,” as he was affectionately called in the industry, was a pioneer in the formulation of adhesives for the floorcovering industry with the advent of glue down carpet applications. The Taylor Co. also became a market force in tackless strip, hot melt tape and tool manufacturing. These product lines were eventually sold to other flooring accessory entities and are still sold today.
Taylor served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and received his degree in Chemistry from the University of Arizona. He worked for several large adhesives manufacturers before forming the W. F. Taylor Co. Inc., in 1977. He later sold the company to a British holding company, Reed Publishing, in 1984. The company was later purchased by current Chairman John E. (Jack) Raidy, Sr., in 1989 from Williams Holding, another British owner, and remains a family-run company.
“Wally left a strong legacy to build upon and was viewed as a consummate gentleman by our customers and employees. He has remained a valued resource over the years,” remarked Jack Raidy, Sr.
During his retirement, Taylor enjoyed mountain climbing around the world and ran many marathon races. He also repaired antique clocks and played poker. Taylor is survived by his wife, son and daughter and several step children and many grandchildren. He will be missed by his family and many friends.
