Narrow Web Industry Mourns Loss of Louis Werneke

LUXEMBOURG—April 3, 2013—It is with great sadness that Flint Group reports the death of Louis O. Werneke, “Inky Lou," who died peacefully on March 31, 2013. Werneke was born June 23, 1926, and was married to June Louise Werneke. He is survived by his two children, Matthew Werneke and Lisa Werneke Nelson; he lived to see and enjoy eight grandchildren. Werneke was preceded in death by his wife in 2008 and his brother Skip in 2003.

Louis, “Inky Lou," was a successful businessman and the founder of Werneke Ink Company. He played a pivotal role in shaping the narrow Web tag and label market, helping to build the industry as it is today. In 1973, he began the design of the very first water-based ink for flexographic printing. Truly a visionary, Werneke once stated, “There have to be some changes made for the environment and for the energy crunches we have.” He then made the decision to dedicate time and energy to develop a water-based system for label printing. Werneke built a successful global business, which remains a key facet of Flint Group today.

Visitation and prayer mass will be held Monday, April 8 at Washburn-McReavy in Edina, MN. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to N.C. Little Hospice, 7019 Lynmar Lane, Edina, MN 55435.

Our thoughts and sympathy go out to the Werneke family and friends during this sad time. We have all lost a well respected friend, colleague and an industry icon.

For additional information, please contact Deanna Whelan at (763) 398-2716 or e-mail deanna.whelan@flintgrp.com.

About Flint Group
Flint Group is dedicated to serving the global printing and packaging industry. The company develops, manufactures and markets an extensive portfolio of printing consumables, including a vast range of conventional and energy curable inks and coatings for most offset, flexographic and gravure applications; pressroom chemicals, printing blankets and sleeves for offset printing; photopolymer printing plates and sleeves, plate-making equipment and flexographic sleeve systems; and pigments and additives for use in inks and other colorant applications.

With a strong customer focus, unmatched service and support, and superior products, Flint Group strives to provide exceptional value, consistent quality and continuous innovation to customers around the world. Headquartered in Luxembourg, Flint Group employs some 6,800 people. Revenues for 2012 were € 2.25 billion (US $2.9 billion). On a worldwide basis, the company is the number one or number two supplier in every major market segment it serves.

Source: Flint Group.