Engineer and inventor Ed Beierlorzer - whose career with Web Press Corporation spanned four decades - has died.

He worked for the innovative Tacoma, Washington, single-width press builder as an engineer from March 1984 until August 1992, and returned as engineering vice president in 1997.

While his term with Web Press technically ended when the company was dissolved in 2010, Beierlorzer (right) had continued as a consulting engineer after its product line was acquired by Globe Machine.

Although not one of Web Press's inventors, he did help with modifications; he had patented inventions for envelopes and converting equipment while working for a another company.

Colleague Gail Sampson described him as a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. "Ed was also an inventor and avid bicycle enthusiast, and continued to 'work' to the very end, calling (operations manager) Rick Guinn frequently to discuss not only life, but customer issues and to offer solutions," she says.

"Customers will remember Ed helping to plan installations and recommending expansions and modifications. We will miss our friend and co-worker."