Lee Martin, former president, CEO and chairman of NIBCO, died on March 26 at the age of 83. Vice chairman of NIBCO's Board since 1995, Martin served for nearly 60 years with the company, which was founded by his maternal grandfather, Casper Schweitzer, in 1904. He served as president until 1976, CEO from 1965 to 1992 and chairman from 1976 to 1995. Martin was known for his devotion to manufacturing efficiency and drive to be the lowest-cost producer.

Martin co-founded and served as past director of The Martin Foundation, which contributes to educational and environmental causes and is one of the largest philanthropic foundations in Indiana. He also was one of three co-founders and former board chairman of the Denver-based Samaritan Institute, a non-denominational, not-for-profit provider of counseling and wellness services.

NIBCO is currently headed by Lee Martin's son, Rex Martin, who serves as president, chairman and CEO.