Founder, co-owner of The BoxMaker, a Kent company, passes away

David A. Hill, founder and co-owner of The BoxMaker, died Sunday following a prolonged illness, the Kent company announced Monday.

Hill’s desire to serve clients with custom solutions led him to the packaging industry.

“What fascinated me with the box business is that you’re selling a product you can influence,” Hill said. “You can take something – anything – you can bring it into our store, and I can change it somehow.”

Hill began his career in corrugated as a sales representative for Boise Cascade, and eventually went on to manage its Wallula, Wash., box plant. In 1981 he relocated his family to the Seattle area and founded The BoxMaker with his business partner and co-0wner, Dave Taylor.

Hill’s drive for innovation became the company’s mantra: “Do something different,” which has remained a major strategy for The BoxMaker throughout its history.

For 38 years, Hill had a passion for packaging. He loved working with people, both those that worked for him and the customers he called upon. His dedication and hard work laid the foundation for a company that today employs more than 180 people across seven facilities throughout Washington and Oregon.

Outside of work, Dave loved spending time with his two children and four grandchildren and fly fishing the many rivers of the Pacific Northwest.

“Dave will be deeply missed by everyone at The BoxMaker as well as many of our customers and suppliers,” said Richard Brown, company president. “He was the father of our business and often the first smile visitors would receive at the office. Our sincerest sympathies go out to Dave’s family and friends.”

A public memorial for Hill will be announced. Details will be posted when available at boxmaker.com/Dave-Hill.