Paul Vajda
It is with great sadness that I learned of Carmen’s passing.
I first met Carmen at Protein Technologies International (PTI) in the early 1990s, when we were both early in our careers. I had the privilege of being her manager while she maintained the PTI Bake Lab. From the very beginning, I knew I could depend on her. Her work was diligent, meticulous, and exceptionally well documented. She approached every task with care and professionalism, and her reliability made a lasting impression on me.
What I remember even more, though, is the person Carmen was. She had a warm smile, an infectious laugh, and a kindness that made the workplace a better place to be. She brought genuine warmth to those around her.
Carmen was also a devoted mother. She spoke often and proudly of her sons, Jason and Tommy, and it was always clear that they were the center of her world. Her love for her family was evident in every conversation.
Although our professional paths diverged after I left PTI in 1995, I was pleased to see Carmen go on to build a successful career as a sales leader within the food ingredient industry. It was wonderful to know that the dedication, intelligence, and integrity I had seen so early in her career continued to serve her so well.
More than thirty years have passed since we first worked together, yet the memories remain vivid. Carmen was one of those people who left a lasting impression, not only because of the quality of her work, but also because of the quality of her character.
She will be remembered with great respect and fondness, and I will miss her.
My heartfelt condolences go to Jason, Tommy, and all of Carmen's family and friends during this difficult time. May the many happy memories of her bring comfort in the days ahead.
