06/04/2026
According to the award citation:
“Under Walter's management and direction, the Grote Manufacturing Company was credited with major developments in early automated hydraulic injection molding machines. His initiatives in product development and marketing were significant factors in the growth of the plastics industry during the 1930s, when he was one of the first to perceive the importance of larger and safer plastic reflectors for automotive applications.”
L-R: William "Bill" Grote, Walter Grote Sr., Walter "Buzz" Grote