The sporting goods industry was saddened at the sudden passing of Woolrich president and CEO Roswell Brayton, Jr., who collapsed at the company’s headquarters in Woolrich, Penn. the week before last. Brayton joined the company in 1978, became president in 1996, and took on the role of CEO in 1997. He was 55 years old. Brayton leaves behind his wife, Sally, and seven children.

Woolrich revealed a succession plan last week that had James Griggs, previously Woolrich’s VP of finance, named president by the company’s board of directors. Charles Aides, Woolrich’s SVP of apparel manufacturing and sourcing, was named chairman of the board. Griggs has been a member of the Woolrich team since 1987 and has held various positions in finance and accounting. He was named VP of finance in 2005 and was appointed to the Woolrich board of directors in 2006. Aides came to Woolrich in 1989 as group manufacturing manager. In 1994, he was promoted to VP of apparel manufacturing and sourcing. Aides became SVP of apparel manufacturing and sourcing in 1999, and joined Woolrich’s board of directors in 1997.

“Roz was a great person who treated everyone with respect. He was loved at Woolrich. He was a boss’ boss, meaning that he was a great leader who also brought a personal, human touch to his job,” said Griggs. “We have a great management staff, and Roz delegated a lot of authority to the VPs, which will help make the transition smoother.”