OPE
upfront
organization's board and as chairmen. We send well wishes to the
Ariens family today. We will remember Michael fondly."
As part of OPEI, Mike took the lead on several high-profile
initiatives. In the early 1980s, he represented the industry before
the Consumer Product Safety Commission to initiate a more
orderly conversion to new safety standards. He led the fight on
behalf of manufacturers and dealers for a rational transition.
He was also a pioneer in blending rational business compro-
mise among the engine manufacturers and consumers through
several landmark emissions standards initiatives. And he was a
strong advocate for the creation of OPEI's own exposition —
now known as GIE+EXPO — to showcase the industry and its
products.
"Mike was a diplomatic, fair negotiator and respectful of every-
one he worked with over his career," said Dan. "He loved this outdoor
power equipment industry and was grateful for all the relationships
he shared over the years with his extended OPE family."
Mike was a graduate of MIT (Massachusetts Institute of
Technology) and Indiana University, and he served in the Army
Corps of Engineers. Prior to joining Ariens Company, he worked
for the chairman of the board of Cummins Engines.
Throughout his career, Mike dedicated time to serve on the
boards of many business, civic and philanthropic organizations,
including WPS Resources Corporation; Schneider National, Inc.;
U.S. Oil Company; Calumet County Bank; Interstate Corporation;
L.M. Becker Company; Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce;
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Education Counselor); St.
Mary of the Woods College; Catholic Diocese of Green Bay; and
the Catholic Foundation of the Diocese of Green Bay.
Mike is survived by his wife, Mimi, of 58 years; children Michael
II (Renee), Daniel (Julie), Margaret (Marty) Denten, Kathryn
(Mike) Martell, Peter (Didi), Mary (Emo) Dellanina, Christopher
(Israel), and Andrew (Brooke); and 23 grandchildren.
On behalf of everyone at OPE, I would like to express my sincerest
condolences to the entire Ariens family on the passing of Mike Ariens, who
will always be remembered for his many contributions not only to the
Ariens Company, but also to the entire OPE industry.
www.outdoorpowerequipment.com OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT APRIL 2015 7
