Earlier this month, longtime owner of Garibaldi Glass, National Glass Association volunteer and overall steward of the glass industry Carey Mobius passed away. His loss has been felt by many in the industry who considered him not only a colleague, but a friend and a mentor.
Reflections from the industry
"I’m heartbroken by the loss of Carey Mobius. Carey was a leader, a mentor and a friend who profoundly influenced my career and my life. He gave me my start in the glass industry when he hired me at Garibaldi Glass in 2003. From estimating and sales to lean manufacturing, professional development, and relationship building, he shared his knowledge generously and led by example," says Richard Porayko, storyteller for Construction Creative Marketing + Communications. "Carey’s energy was unmatched. We worked hard, traveled often, and created countless memorable moments. Even after I left Garibaldi to start my own marketing consultancy in 2007, Carey remained a steadfast supporter. His passion, enthusiasm, and belief in people were constants in everything he did."
"I can tell you that he was a people-first type of person. If you came to town, he was taking you out to dinner," says Head of Engineering, Tristar Glass, Robert Carlson. "He wanted you to get better and grow and he was very open about how he had achieved his growth and the steps and processes that he took that did and didn’t work for him. The last time I visited his plant he pulled a book about scaling up off the shelf and gave it to me to keep. He always treated me like he was rooting for my success and wanted to hear my ideas and opinions. He had a way of making you feel valued. He will be missed greatly."
"Carey Mobius was such a unique personality, a force. He led gently, yet with intention and persistence. He saw needs and chose to get involved to address them. He found value in serving the broader industry, knowing his own business and people would equally benefit. That is shown through his formation of Glass Days(R), at which I had the privilege of attending and speaking, built for education and networking. It is also reflected in Garibaldi Glass' 25+ year membership in the legacy GANA and NGA, including volunteerism shown by his employees to elevate the industry's resources. His mind, his care, his humor will all be deeply missed," says Urmilla Sowell, NGA vice president of advocacy & technical services.
"I was sad to hear of Carey Mobius' recent passing. His loss is felt deeply, both personally and collectively. Carey was a dedicated volunteer for the NGA and a passionate advocate for the glass industry at large. He approached his volunteerism as he approached his work; with care, patience and a genuine appreciation for the industry. His kindness, dedication and belief in our mission will continue to be reflected in the work we do and the community we nurture. Carey will be remembered with gratitude and respect. My thoughts at this time go out to his family, friends, colleagues and all loved ones," says NGA Board Chair and President, Tristar Glass, Tim Kelley.
"Carey had a positive effect on so many in our space; he blazed a fresh trail in his operating acumen and pushed us to be better in the architectural space. He was a mentor to many folks and a sounding board for others as well. From a personal side, I thought Carey was a blast. He lived life to its fullest and then some. He could light up a room, and you wanted to be there with him," says Max Perilstein, founder of Sole Source Consulting.
"Carey’s love for his family, his company, and the industry was evident in every interaction. His legacy—one of integrity, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to never ever giving up—will continue to inspire all who knew him. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the Garibaldi Glass team during this difficult time," adds Porayko.
