Jim Abbott was a long time TAPPI member who became one of the associations most vibrant new members more than four decades ago. Before developing his interest in the industry, Jim attended Pleasant Ridge Elementary School and later graduated from Walnut Hills High School in Cincinnati, Ohio, USA, with the class of 1956. He went on to receive his undergraduate degree from The College of Wooster, Ohio. He was a class of 1960 graduate, and earned his Masters and PhD. Degrees in chemistry from the Ohio State University in 1964. He was employed by the Procter and Gamble Co. (P&G) for almost 30 years until he retired in 1994. During his tenure with P&G, he worked mainly in the Paper Division as a lab manager and had extensive.experience/expertise in test standardization through TAPPI, ASTM, and ISO.Abbott served on the Board of Directors of TAPPI with a list of notable highlights earned during his years with the association. He was described as one of TAPPI's most active members, with a memership starting in 1972. In 2009, Jim received the TAPPI Herman L. Joachim Distinguished Service Award for exemplary leadership. He was also a Process & Product Quality council member and served on its Division Steering Committee. He was a member of the Ohio Local Section. Jim Abbott contributed to several Standards and Test Methods for the association.
Jim also received the Award of Merit from ASTM, the organization’s highest honor. In his early years, Jim was a member of Cub Scout Pack 33 and Boy Scout Troop 6 sponsored by Pleasant Ridge Presbyterian Church (PRPC). As an adult, he was Cub Master of Pack 33. He was a proud husband for a total of 56 years. Jim additionally served on the Board of Deacons as well as the Session at PRPC. Music was a really big part of Jim’s life. He played both piano and organ and assisted in the music programs within the church, playing for Youth Church worship services, the annual music productions, and as assistant organist.
After retiring, Jim kindled an interest in woodworking and built many pieces of furniture, both for family members and for the annual church bazaar. His love for family and "tell it like it is" attitude will be missed. Burial will be private in Springdale Cemetery in Riley, Ohio. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. today (October 6) at the Pleasant Ridge Presbyterian Church followed by a reception.
In lieu of flowers, you can send direct donations to Pleasant Ridge Presbyterian Church, 5950 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45213, or Hospice of Cincinnati, P.O. Box 633597, Cincinnati, Ohio 45263.