Bob Born, Father of PEEPS®, passes away at 98 years old
Bethlehem, PA. — January 30, 2023 – Just Born Quality Confections announced today that Ira “Bob” Born passed away peacefully on the morning of January 29, at the age of 98. Bob, who was the son of the company’s founder Sam Born, joined Just Born in 1945 after World War II where he honorably served in the Navy. Bob devoted his life to Just Born and the science and process of candy making. He was an inventor whose amazing intellect allowed him to see solutions to almost any situation. Most notable was his ability to see how PEEPS®, which were made by hand, could be produced in a mechanical manner. Bob designed the machine that deposits the PEEPS® Marshmallow Chicks, and his machine was in use for well over 50 years. Bob’s design became the basis for the current marshmallow depositing systems. Bob also invented HOT TAMALES® by finding a creative way to rework MIKE AND IKE® candies. Bob last visited the Just Born factory on February 15, 2019 when he was honored by the City of Bethlehem proclaiming the first day of the Easter season as “Bob Born Day.”
“Bob will be remembered as a tireless and passionate advocate for the candy industry and a wonderful supporter of our community. Bob was our second-generation family member whose dedication was instrumental in Just Born reaching our 100-year milestone. We extend our deepest sympathy to his son, Ross, and the entire family.” said David Shaffer, Board Chair and Co-CEO of Just Born.
About Just Born Quality Confections:
Just Born Quality Confections is a third-generation family-owned candy manufacturer with its purpose to bring sweetness to people’s lives. Just Born is the maker of some of America’s most beloved and iconic brands – PEEPS®, MIKE AND IKE®, HOT TAMALES® and GOLDENBERG’S® PEANUT CHEWS®. As Just Born celebrates a century of sweetness, it has enjoyed being a part of family traditions and memories for 100 years. In 1923, the founder, Sam Born, opened a small candy shop in Brooklyn, New York, where he marketed the freshness of his daily-made candy with a sign that declared, “Just Born.” Together with Born’s brothers-in-law, Irv and Jack Shaffer, the company thrived and, in 1932, moved its operations to Bethlehem, PA where it has grown to become one of the largest candy companies in the US by giving back to the community, being good environmental stewards and creating a culture where people want to work.
For more information, please visit www.justborn.com Follow us: facebook.com/JustBornInc, twitter.com/JustBornInc.
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