Fred Rockwood, a business and community leader in Batesville, has passed away.
Rockwood, who was 66, earned a college degree from Stanford and in 1975 graduated from Harvard Law School. In 1977, he accepted a position with Hillenbrand Industries and was the founder and first chief executive officer of the Forethought Group in Batesville.
Rockwood became President and CEO of Hillenbrand Industries in 1999 and retired in 2005.
Hillenbrand released a statement on the passing of Rockwood:
“The Hillenbrand organization is saddened to hear of the passing of Fred Rockwood. Today, we give pause to reflect on his life. Over the years, Fred Rockwood played significant roles in the history of Hillenbrand Industries and in the Batesville community. Beyond his excellence as a business leader, he also gave tirelessly to others who were less fortunate. And, Fred’s commitment to his family served as an outstanding example to us all. Our hearts and prayers go out to the Rockwood family.”
The Rockwood family said he was a faithful member of his church, supported the arts, and will be remembered for his giving spirit, sense of humor, intelligence, spirituality, and his wisdom and faith.
Funeral services will be held Saturday at the Cincinnati Ohio Stake Center of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Lakeside Park, KY.
