Pratt Industries announced today 18 May 2015 the passing of its former Deputy CEO Mike Harwood, one of the most respected leaders in the global paper and packaging industry.

Mike, 71, died peacefully at his home Sunday in Marietta, Ga. after a bout with cancer, surrounded by his family including his beloved wife of many years, Renie.

Company chairman Anthony Pratt said he was deeply saddened by the news of Mike's passing, and remembered him as "a giant of the industry."

"He was without doubt the greatest containerboard salesman ever," said Anthony. "He was a great man and Pratt Industries wouldn't be where it is today without his immense contributions. We have all been very fortunate to have known and worked with him. I will miss him. My sincere condolences go out to Renie and the family."

Mike joined Pratt as a director with global responsibility for containerboard in 1995 and was named Deputy CEO three years later. During his tenure with Pratt, the company grew from the 46th biggest box producer in the nation to number 5.

"Our company lost one of its leaders this week but the entire industry will share in this loss because Mike was so was widely respected," said Brian McPheely, global CEO of Pratt Industries and its Australian sister company Visy.

"He was one of the driving forces behind Pratt's many successes over the past 20 years through his unsurpassed work ethic and dedication. He helped this company reach the national and international standing it now enjoys. My thoughts and prayers got out to his family."

Mike began his career in the industry he loved in 1969 at International Paper as a marketing trainee and rose through the ranks to hold key positions with the Container Division in the U.S. and Europe. He was eventually named Vice President of the Containerboard, Kraft Paper, and Kraft Packaging Divisions at IP, responsible for all phases of its containerboard and kraft business worldwide.

He remained with IP until his move to Pratt Industries.

Mike also held numerous executive positions in the paper and packaging industry, including President of the World Containerboard Organization, the major trade association for all producers of containerboard products. He was also a founding member of the International Corrugated Packaging Foundation, and served on the Board of Directors of the International Corrugated Case Association and the Fibre Box Association.

Last year he was recognized by PPI and RISI as one of the "50 most influential leaders in the Global Pulp and Paper Industry." And just this month the ICPF announced Mike had been selected for induction into its Circle of Distinguished Leaders, which honors "exceptional visionaries whose energy and talent have moved the industry forward in remarkable ways."

Mike divided his free time between his homes in Marietta and Kiawah Island, SC, with Renie, his children and grandchildren. He was also an avid tennis player and supporter of his beloved Tar Heels of his alma mater, the University of North Carolina.