David A. Hill, Founder and Co-Owner of The BoxMaker, Passed Away

The BoxMaker announced with great sadness that David A. Hill, founder and Co-Owner, passed away on June 16, 2019 following a prolonged illness. The thoughts of The BoxMaker’s coworkers are with Dave’s family.

Following a successful career in the United States Military, Dave Hill sought his next opportunity in sales. He investigated the life insurance business first. “I interviewed with one life insurance company. The way it worked was you were given a list of products you could sell, and you couldn’t change anything to adapt to a customer’s needs or the environment,” he said. Dave wanted something different, something with more potential for growth.

It was this desire to serve clients with custom solutions that led Dave Hill to the packaging industry. “What fascinated me with the box business is that you’re selling a product you can influence. You can take something—anything—you can bring it into our store, and I can change it somehow.” Dave began his career in corrugated as a sales representative for Boise Cascade, and eventually went on to manage their Wallula, WA box plant. In 1981 he relocated his family to the Seattle area and founded The BoxMaker with his business partner and Co-Owner, Dave Taylor.

"Do Something Different"

Dave 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, Dave 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 over 180 people across 7 facilities throughout Washington and Oregon, enduring as a living legacy of Dave’s many years of hard work and dedication.

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

"Dave will be deeply missed by everyone at The BoxMaker as well as many of our customers and suppliers,” states Richard Brown, 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 will be held for Dave in the near future. Details will be posted when available at www.boxmaker.com/Dave-Hill.