Joe Dieffenbacher Memorial Engineering Scholarship Fund

The corrugated industry was saddened by the passing of Joseph Andrew Dieffenbacher, 60, of Olive Branch, MS, on August 7, 2018 after a courageous 2-year battle with Merkel Cell Carcinoma.  The Corrugated Packaging Council of TAPPI has established this memorial scholarship fund in his honor

Born on March 18th to John and Jeanette Dieffenbacher of Whippany NJ, Joe started his career with International Paper at age 16, as a Draftsman in the Whippany, NJ headquarters.

Joe earned an AS Degree in Mechanical Engineering from both County College of Morris, NJ and Memphis State University. Over time, Joe held positions of increasing responsibility including Plant Engineer, Regional Engineer, Chief Engineer and ultimately Manager, Engineering & Capital Purchasing – North America Container, with engineering oversight of over 170 locations in the U.S., Mexico and Chile.

Joe could accomplish anything he set his mind to and was truly a self-made man. He was instrumental in the design & development of several technological advances in the corrugated industry and contributed in the development of multiple patents held by IP. Joe served as a member of the Corrugated Packaging Council in TAPPI, the Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry. Along the way, he mentored many colleagues in their career paths, and became the principal technical resource for what eventually became the world’s largest supplier of corrugated packaging.

Joe passed just prior to his 44th anniversary with IP. His career took him around the world. His dedication to his job was unsurpassed, and he was truly respected by everyone throughout the industry. His sharp-wit and generous spirit were admirable.

If you would like to donate to the Joe Dieffenbacher Memorial Scholarship Fund, you can do so by using the secure online donation portal in the link below. Or, if you prefer, simply download a copy of the donation form below and mail it, along with a check, to:

Joe Dieffenbacher Memorial Scholarship Fund
c/o TAPPI
P.O. Box 933644
Atlanta GA 31193-3644 USA

For more information on the Fund, please contact Kristi Ledbetter, TAPPI Converting Division Manager, at kledbetter@tappi.org, or 770-209-7319.