In Memoriam: Service Pioneer Irene Hodge Sykes

Irene Hodge Sykes, who with her husband Thomas founded Authorized Commercial Equipment Service in Charlotte, N.C., in 1950, died December 4.

Sykes took over the business when her husband passed away, and became one of the first female owners of a service company member of the Commercial Food Equipment Service Association. The company joined CFESA since 1976 and she served as secretary on its board of directors.

She is survived by her daughter Shannon and son John. Services were held December 7 in Charlotte. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to the CFESA World Headquarters and Global Training Facility Sponsorship Fund.