J Orin Edson passed away

His success story from humble beginnings, hard work and ingenuity are the epitome of the American dream. Hearing so many back stories from my industry friends about his vision and influence, all great stuff and he really shaped the boat building industry.

God speed

I consider myself fortunate to have known him in any way. I can only imagine the experiences you had with him. His impact on the boat world with his development of Bayliner was immense. He's responsible for so many getting into boating who otherwise couldn't have done so, both Bayliner customers and others who had to respond. He never accepted the conventional wisdom but found a better way. His relationships were the type on which you build success, from Bill Garden to Daryl Wakefield to Gary Chouest. I am proud to have owned two of his boats. His final present to us all was finding a purchaser for Westport who could continue what he'd built there. He was truly a genius and it showed in his business acumen but also in his boat vision. It took very little time talking to him to know you were in the presence of someone with such tremendous knowledge and ability but also such a good, honorable, decent and caring person.

If anyone ever wants to know how to run a boat manufacturing operation, it's simple. Just do it like Orin Edson did.

The English translation of Evviva means 'hurray', or an applause. In the same manner, Orin's life should be celebrated. Not many people chart their own destiny. Orin commanded his life.

It speaks volumes that he chose Kenny to command his ships.