Allan R. Dragone

ALLAN R. DRAGONE Allen R. Dragone, 80, distinguished manufacturing executive and corporate leader passed away on Sunday, August 20, 2006, in Stamford, CT. Born April 20, 1926 in Melrose, MA, he was the son of the late Rudolph and Louise (Lyons) Dragone. After service in the Navy during WWII, he earned an undergraduate degree from Middlebury College and an MBA from Harvard Business School. Mr. Dragone enjoyed a four-decade career in the corporate world, where his business acumen influenced companies in the paper, textile, and chemical industries. He began as a market strategist for Carborundum Corporation in 1952 and went on to assume management positions within National Research, Champion Paper Incorporated, and Standard Packaging Company. He joined Celanese Corporation in 1966 and ultimately held the post of President and Chief Operating Officer (19801983). After leaving Celanese he was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Akzo America, a post held until 1990. He also served on a number of public and privately held corporations and institutions. For many years Mr. Dragone has been an owner and breeder of thoroughbred horses, racing under the name December Hill Farm, actively involved with several horserelated organizations, a member of The Jockey Club, and served as Chairman of the New York Racing Association (NYRA) from 1990-1995. He was a long time member of the Board of Trustees of Middlebury College, and Chairman from 1983 to 1989. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Jane (Brady) Dragone of Darien, CT and Vero Beach, FL; and children Allan Jr. of Atlanta, GA; Peter of Concord, MA; Christopher of Saratoga Springs, NY; Jennifer of Falmouth, MA; Alyssa of New York, NY as well as by five grandchildren. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. John Roman Catholic Church, 1986 Post Road, Darien on Wednesday, August 23, 2006 at 10:00 AM. Burial will follow at Spring Grove Cemetery, Darien. www.lawrencef uneralhome.co m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Richard L. Rosenthal Hospice Residence, c/o Visiting Nurse & Hospice Care, 1029 East Main Street, Stamford, CT 06905.