Wastequip founder, Dr. Charles W. Walton, died Nov. 3. He was 83. A true visionary, Walton established Wastequip in the late 1980s with his sights on consolidating the fragmented waste equipment industry. Wastequip thrived under Walton’s leadership, and eventually became one of the largest manufacturers of waste and recycling equipment. After Wastequip was acquired by a private equity firm in 1999, Walton continued to lead the company until his retirement in 2007.

“Charles was a born entrepreneur, and an idealistic businessman. He not only founded Wastequip, but built it into the world-class company it is today,” said Wastequip CEO Martin (Marty) Bryant, who stepped into the leadership position in 2012. “His passing falls heavy on our hearts, but his vision and spirit will forever be the foundation of Wastequip. Our deepest sympathies go to his family and friends. He will be missed.”