Longtime shoe executive Raymond V. Sessa passed away peacefully at home on August 18. He was 86. Born in Philadelphia, PA, Sessa began his footwear career as a buyer for John Wanamaker, later joining Brown Shoe where he ran various brands, including Life Stride. He went on to run Hush Puppies at Wolverine Worldwide, followed by Keds and Grasshoppers at Stride Rite before re-joining Wolverine Worldwide. His keen eye for product and creative ideas led him to develop 14 United States patents, including the notable in-line skate patent, which he received in 1971. He continued working on his pantents throughout his retirement.
Sessa is survived by his wife, Nancy, sons Scott and Tod, brothers Norma and Louis, four grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. A private memorial service was held in Minneapolis. Expressions of sympathy can be made in Sessa’s honor to Two Ten Footwear Foundation. www.twoten.org
