We regret to report that Peter Gifford, longtime leader of Cryomech Inc., has passed away at 69.

“Peter is an entity who is difficult to properly describe in words, but most people remember him for his kindness, genuine curiosity and unwavering passion for life,” said Tabitha Sebastino, Cryomech’s sales manager, in a brief statement from the company informing friends and colleagues of his passing. “His involvement in this community was something he was incredibly proud of, and he considered many of you to be his friends, not simply business associates.”

Gifford was a leader in the cryogenic community, a dedicated member of CSA and one of the second-generation industry leaders affectionately dubbed the “Cryomafia.”

“This is a tremendous loss of a friend who for over 30 years enhanced my world of cryogenics and made me a better person,” said Vincent Grillo, co-president of Cryofab Inc. and fellow Cryomafia member.

Under Gifford’s leadership, Cryomech has been a longstanding and strong supporter of CSA as a Corporate Sustaining Member. He established and funded the William E. Gifford Award, in honor of his father, which is given every two years by the society.

Cold Facts featured tributes to Peter Gifford in our February issue. Complete text of the many tributes can be viewed in our CSA Highlights section.

The Gifford family held a memorial service and luncheon in Syracuse on Saturday, February 11th.

A fund has been established in Gifford’s name to support STEM education. Memorial contributions can be directed to the Central New York Community Foundation for the Peter E. Gifford Fund for Career and Technical Education. Donations can be made online at http://www.cnycf.org/givenow or by mail to CNY Community Foundation, 431 E. Fayette Street, Suite 100, Syracuse, NY 13202.