Ed Johnson, MAS, who served as PPAI Board Chair in 1995 and was formerly regional vice president at Geiger, passed away on February 15 after a long illness.

Johnson’s career in the industry began as a graphic designer working with promotional products companies in the Chicago area. In 1973 he moved to Seattle, Washington, and joined the Walter W. Cribbins Company in a sales role. He rose within sales management and in 1987 purchased the San Francisco division of the company. He later sold the Walter W. Cribbins Company to Geiger where he and his wife remained active.

A longtime industry volunteer, Johnson was elected to the PPAI board of directors—then known as the Specialty Advertising Association International—in 1991. During his term, he was instrumental in the Association’s name change to Promotional Products Association International.

Johnson is survived by his wife Tanya and four daughters. Look for Tuesday’s PPB Newslink to read more on Johnson and his accomplishments in the promotional products industry.