Joe Straus, R.I.P.

Palmdale, CA  April 2, 2018 – It is with a solemn spirit that U.S. Pole Company, manufacturer of the Sun Valley and U.S. Architectural Lighting brands announces the passing of its founder Joe Straus.

Joe founded U.S. Pole in 1984 as a manufacturer of steel and aluminum poles and eventually expanded the company’s capabilities to the design and manufacturing of traditional lighting fixtures and decorative poles vis-à-vis the Sun Valley Lighting brand and a few years later grew to encompass the contemporary U.S. Architectural Lighting brand.

Straus envisioned a manufacturing organization based entirely in the U.S. and completely vertically integrated engaged in designing, tooling, fabricating, marketing and selling its products. He fully realized that goal and over the past 10 years put an emphasis on product innovation and development to address the need for specification-grade outdoor products. As a final stage in the development of U.S. Pole, Joe transformed the company into an ESOP as a way of rewarding the dozens of employees who worked for and with him, many for more than 30 years.

Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of Joe Straus.

Most of you are already aware of the transition to becoming an ESOP and in Joe’s foresight for the company’s future, this transition is a couple of years along already. While missing Joe’s daily participation and spirit, the function of U.S. Pole will continue apace.

On a more personal level, we know many of you have had a close relationship with the Straus family. While we all share in their grief, we will be leaving their private matters private and not passing on matters regarding any memorial service and the like via this forum. We respectfully request that the family be given their space at this time. We will advise you of any future events of a company nature as they may occur.

As stated in the conclusion our press release, we ask that all join us in celebrating the accomplishments of Joe Straus and remember the fiery spirit and drive that drove him to success. Perhaps the best quote comes directly from the Straus family: “Let’s honor Joe’s memory and keep this company great“.

With Warmest Regards and a Somber Spirit,

Kerry A. Evanoff                                                            Michael Sobelman

Exec. VP Sales & Marketing                                          CEO

U.S. Architectural/Sun Valley Lighting                          U.S. Architectural/Sun Valley Lighting