Despite the heat, the two men enthusiastically circulated among the crowd, shaking hands and receiving congratulations on what was clearly a proud day for two industry veterans.
Gillett noted that it was indeed a family event but added that his "family" includes the company's 700-member staff nationwide, its business partners throughout the world, and the people of Fostoria, a small town 100 miles west of Cleveland that has been Roppe's home since day one.