Board Converting News, December 16, 2024

Hans Koch, Packaging Industry Pioneer, Dies At 87 Hans Koch, a beloved leader, and visionary in the pack- aging industry, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2024, at his home in Edgewood, Washington. He was 87 years old. Born in Stendal, Germany in 1937, his early years were spent surviving WW2 and later occupancy by Russia.

One of Hans most significant contributions to the pack- aging industry was the development of independent sheet feeder partnerships. Founding Corrugated Synergies in 1998, CSI designed, built and managed over 14 sheet feed- ers/box plants with more than 100 partners. This strong work ethic and drive to succeed would fore- shadow the impressive 50+ year career that lay ahead for Hans. Over the course that half-century in addition to sheet feeders across the US and Canada, Hans owned and op- erated Allpak Packaging, Trojan Litho, Crown Packaging, CBC Corrugated and numerous other businesses. Hans was known for his innovative approach, tireless work ethic, and exceptional business acumen. Beyond his professional achievements, Hans was a de- voted family man who treasured time spent with his loved ones. He was known for his warm smile, genuine interest in others, and ability to make everyone feel valued and re- spected. He was an avid hunter and fisherman who loved spending time with friends and business partners at his properties in Old Harbor and Sitka, Alaska and the Bull Riv- er guest ranch in British Columbia. Hans was deeply committed to his community as well, being a generous philanthropist who supported causes close to his heart, including his love of animals. He also mentored many young professionals in the packaging in- dustry, sharing his expertise and helping them develop their careers. He maintained contact with his long-time business CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

Hans was a rising soccer star in his Germany before escaping to En- gland with his mother and then im- migrating to Toronto, Canada at the age of 17. As he pursued his pas- sion for athletics, Hans developed a strong work ethic and interest in the packaging industry, working nights and weekends at Domtar

Hans Koch

Packaging while putting himself through high school and college. After 7 years in Toronto, Hans was promoted and moved his family to Calgary. Belkin Packaging convinced Hans and family to move again to Vancouver, BC as Director of Manufacturing. En- ticed by his Sales Manager to form a partnership, his first experience in ownership was a sheet plant, Boxmaster in Vancouver. Owning and operating a sheet plant con- vinced him of the need for a reliable source of sheets.

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December 16, 2024

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