Editor’s note: Earlier this week, we received an email from John Sutton, vice president software solutions for Novatech, about the passing of his friend and mentor, Lee Rummage. Rummage spent 30 years at RJ Young and ten years at Ricoh as a technology sales specialist. Admittedly, Rummage was not on our radar, however, after hearing from Sutton and another colleague of Rummage’s, Joe Barganier, district business manager/dealer business consultant for Ricoh USA, it was clear that he should have been. As Sutton told us, “Lee was a consummate leader and consistent producer, but he never sought the spotlight.”
“Since 1991, when I entered the imaging and print industry, Lee Rummage was the best at what he did—software solutions, service, and the copier dealer model, Barganier told me in a phone call Wednesday afternoon. “I was fortunate to be friends with him. I had the privilege of working with him since 2008 on MPS. He evangelized Square 9 and PrintFleet, and many of the software packages that dealers ultimately embraced. He knew the software inside out, and dealers across the country would call him for advice. He was the answer man. He even pointed out flaws to the software manufacturers. His influence was one of those quiet influences across the industry. He was low key and humble.”
We are honored to shed the spotlight on Lee today.
Industry veteran, Lee Rummage passed away at age 60 on Saturday, December 31, 2022, after a long, courageous battle with cancer.
Lee touched the careers of many within the office equipment and technology space during his 40+ year career. He was a pioneer within our industry’s managed print services and software solutions segments, and he developed the skillset of countless sales professionals along the way.
Lee was a consummate teacher. He was always giving of his time, knowledge, and experience, to others. It was common to find Lee sharing tips, offering advice, and coaching others to personal and professional growth. His constant drive helped dealers throughout the U.S. achieve success with many professional services and software solutions beyond what they were organically capable of. He had an intangible knack for strategy within the sales cycle and a warm personality that can only be described as a gift.
After graduating high school in 1981, and attending college at Tennessee Tech University, Lee joined Nashville area office equipment dealer, RJ Young, and enjoyed an illustrious 30-year career. He then joined office equipment manufacturer, Ricoh USA, for another 10 years. He enjoyed traveling with his family and working on cars and home projects.
Lee is survived by his wife, Pamela Kay Smith Rummage, his children, Matthew Lee Rummage, Michael Taylor Rummage, and Megan Kate Rummage, and his siblings, Gene (Phyllis) Rummage and Laura Rummage. Lee will be missed dearly by many, including his original ImageWORKS sales team at RJ Young, and Zoë, his dog, who was his constant companion.
Lee’s service will held on Thursday, January 5, 2022, at 3:00 pm, with a visitation followed by a funeral service and a celebration of life.
In lieu of flowers, Lee has asked that you please donate to his dear friend Stan Jones’ nonprofit organization Recognize and Remember Veterans.
The address is as follows:
R&R Veterans P.O. Box 1038 Taylorsville, MS 39168
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