Triton Industries founder dies

Marvin Wortell

Triton Industries, a provider of custom metal fabrication, stamping, cutting, and welding, has announced the death of its founder, Marvin Wortell, at 100 years old.

He started his career as a tool and die apprentice at age 19 while taking evening classes at the Amour Institute of Technology, now IIT. He was transferred to the company’s engineering department as an intern, where he learned about manufacturing processes.

In 1961 Wortell founded Triton Industries in Chicago as a chassis manufacturer. Over the years, the company manufactured metal parts for the medical, office, and military markets; was an early supplier for fax machines, GPS, and copy machines; and played a key role in designing the truck and transportation signage industry. He retired from the company in 2005, handing over the helm to his son Brent.

Wortell was one of the founders of the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) and has served as chairman of the Precision Metalforming Association, Tooling and Manufacturing Association, and the Alliance of Manufacturing Industries. He also served on the board of the Illinois Manufacturing Association and as chairman of the local Chicago Boys and Girls Club for two years.