The passing of Corwin “Corky” Packard on May 9 may have been unnoticed by many. It seems only fitting that we should reflect on his lasting legacy, which is still vibrant today.

“Corky,” as he was known by all who knew him, was the start-up manager of the General Electric plant on Rodman Road in Auburn. During his 13-year tenure as manager, starting in 1967, he led the successful transformation of a defunct cookie factory into a multimillion-dollar output component manufacturing facility.

With a small cadre of employees, transferred process and used equipment, the evolution began. Corky was passionate and determined to expand the capabilities of the plant through innovations, including the addition of state-of-the-art machine tools and processes; trained, skilled personnel; and brick and mortar expansions.

Those efforts resulted in providing jobs and prosperity for hundreds of local people, the city of Auburn, surrounding supply vendors and the local vocational school.

Many current and past employees, who experienced outstanding wages and benefits, owe their well-being to a man who had vision, drive, success and a love of the area in setting the framework in making the General Electric plant what it is today.

Many thanks for a job well-done, Corky.

Ralph Nadeau, Auburn