State Remembers ‘Champion’ Rolland
(photo courtesy DePauw University)
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe business community and political leaders continue to remember Fort Wayne business and civic leader Ian Rolland, who passed away last week at the age of 84. The former Lincoln National Life Insurance Co. chief executive officer was instrumental in many community projects, including leading the charge for the creation of Headwaters Park in 1999. Governor Eric Holcomb calls Roland, a 2012 Sachem Award recipient, "among the most talented businessmen Indiana has ever been able to call its own."
Rolland was a DePauw University graduate and longtime trustee. He also held a graduate degree from the University of Michigan. Rolland rose through the ranks at Lincoln National in the 1950s and 1960s before being named chief executive officer in 1977.
The Fort Wayne native received the Sachem Award, Indiana’s highest honor, in 2012. At the time, Governor Mitch Daniels called Rolland "one of the great citizens in recent Indiana history" and "an exemplar of the highest standards of personal integrity. He is also a member of the Indiana Conservation Hall of Fame.
D.O. McComb and Sons are handling the funeral arrangements. There will be a Celebration of Life Friday followed by visitation and a funeral service Saturday. All will be held at the Turnstone Center on 3320 North Clinton Street. You can find more information by clicking here.
Statement from Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb:
Ian Rolland was among the most talented businessmen Indiana has ever been able to call its own. His caring and generous spirit, his community leadership, and his work for educational equality define true civic virtue. All throughout his life, Ian was recognized for his integrity and actions that improved not just the lives of those in northeast Indiana, but our entire state. His passing is a great loss, and Janet and I extend our sincere condolences to the Rolland family and the entire Fort Wayne community.
Statement from Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry:
My thoughts and prayers are with Ian Rolland’s family. Ian was a champion for many successful causes in Fort Wayne from desegregation to family values. His leadership, professionalism and kindness were unmatched. He was intelligent, articulate and a true servant leader. We lost a true hero today. Our City is a better place in many ways due to Ian. He will be missed.
Statement from Trine University President Earl Brooks II:
Trine University was privileged to count Ian M. Rolland among its leadership. He will be greatly missed. His generosity, expertise and desire to make the world a better place not only at Trine University but throughout greater Fort Wayne made a positive impact on many in the region. Our hearts go out to Mimi and their children, but we have the comfort of knowing the work Ian did and supported will continue for many generations to come.