Seymour Padnos
Seymour K. Padnos
October 17, 1920 - July 9, 2020
TERM AS TRUSTEE
Served from June 1, 1998 - 2007
Appointed Honorary Trustee in 2008
BIOGRAPHY
Seymour Padnos was a longtime friend of President Gerald R. Ford. Padnos served as Chairman of the Louis Padnos Iron and Metal Co.
He established the Esther and Seymour Padnos Foundation, which supports a number of organizations, including Grand Valley State University (GVSU). The Padnos Hall of Science and the Padnos College of Engineering and Science at GVSU are named for him. He and his wife Ester established The Padnos Partnership at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, so college interns can spend a semester at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum learning archival skills while learning about President and Mrs. Ford’s legacy.
Seymour K. Padnos passed away at his home in Holland, Michigan at the age of 99 on July 9, 2020. Seymour was the recipient of many honors and awards during his lifetime. He was especially proud that his Distinguished Eagle Scout award was presented to him by President Gerald R. Ford.
Seymour K. Padnos (center) pays his respect at the Annual Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of President Gerald R. Ford in July 2009. (Photo Courtesy of Dr. Robert M. Humphries)