A Tribute to Tom Bacha
October 27, 2026
An encouraging leader in the world of tradeshow exhibit builders. On May 24, 2026, at the age of 72, Thomas Bacha left this world peacefully,
An encouraging leader in the world of tradeshow exhibit builders. On May 24, 2026, at the age of 72, Thomas Bacha left this world peacefully,
October 18, 1939 – October 9, 2026 Mike Ditka, the Hall of Fame tight end and Chicago Bears coach whose career also brought him to
Mike Drobick, a longtime tradeshow industry professional whose career spanned more than four decades in Chicago and Las Vegas, died recently following a heart attack.
In Memoriam: Franc Tivadar August 13, 1947 – September 2, 2026 Franc Tivadar, founder of EDE Corporation and a longtime figure in Chicago’s exhibit industry,
In Memoriam: Thomas James Bacha June 12, 1953 – May 24, 2026 Thomas James Bacha died peacefully on May 24, 2026, surrounded by loved ones.
It is with profound sadness that Absolute Exhibits announces the passing of our co-founder, Chairwoman, and President, Jan Koren, who passed away last week surrounded by her family.
In Memoriam: Joseph L. Rubey Jr. July 31, 1959 – May 15, 2026May 2026 Joseph L. Rubey Jr. died on Friday, May 15, 2026, after
In Memoriam: Gary Francis Wannemacher August 14, 1950 – May 9, 2026 Gary Francis Wannemacher of Downers Grove, Illinois, died on May 9, 2026, at
Joseph Patrick Esposito, Jr. died on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at age 51.
Esposito worked in the tradeshow and live events industry in the Chicago market, including roles with TRU Service Group and Octane Group. His career included city management and showfloor operations. His work involved maintaining relationships with show contractors and venue staff, helping with scheduling, and coordinating labor and trades for events.
Drew Van Diggelen passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind his beloved wife, Bridgett, and their two daughters, Dahlia and Delsie.
Michael Verne Parrott, 86, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, died Sunday, March 29, 2026. Born March 2, 1940, in Marshall, MN, he was the eldest son of Robert Belgrove and Paula Verne Parrott, also of Fort Wayne. A 1958 graduate of Southside High School, Parrott earned his BA from Carleton College and MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business. He was an officer in the US Air Force and was awarded the American Spirit of Honor Medal in 1964, completing his service at the 122nd Tactical Fighter Wing of the Indiana National Guard.
Michael R. Joncek October 7, 1968 – March 1, 2026 Michael Robert Joncek of Las Vegas, Nevada, passed away on March 1, 2026, at
