Remembering Fred Krum

Akron-Canton Airport (CAK) Statement regarding the Late Airport Director Frederick J. Krum

"The entire airport family wants to extend our deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to the Krum family during this extremely difficult time", said airport president and CEO Richard McQueen. "We would like them to know that they are very close in our every thought and prayer. He was a leader, a man of deep integrity, a friend to many and an amazing airport director. We will miss him deeply."

Fred Krum was the greatest leader in our airport's history, serving nearly 28 years as director during his 33 of service. Fred retired from the airport in October 2008.

During his tenure, he worked tirelessly to attract new air service, enhance the airfield, and collaborate with community, airline and business leaders. He made strategic decisions that propelled the airport to its current success. Fred managed more than $250 million in capital improvements, helped passenger figures quadruple, attracted Piedmont Airlines, AirTran Airways and Frontier Airlines (driving air fares down in the region), acquired hundreds of acres of additional land and kept airport operating costs low. His efforts helped position the airport for continued growth and strategic importance in Northeastern Ohio.

During his career, Fred was also a community leader serving on the boards of the North Canton Schools, Wayne Savings Bank, Mercy Medical Center, the Greater Akron Chamber, the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Stark Development Board, the Akron/ Summit Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the Ohio Commercial Airport Consortium.

Because of his strong leadership, Krum won numerous achievement awards during his distinguished career including the Sales & Marketing Executives of Akron's Executive of the Year award in 2002. Additionally in 2004, 2005, 2006, and 2007, Fred was recognized among Inside Business Magazine's Power 100 (a listing of the most influential leaders in Northeast Ohio). He also received the 2006 President's Award from the Akron/ Summit County Convention and Visitors Bureau for his career-long impact on tourism and hospitality in the region and was named "Master Innovator" at the 2006 Smart Business Innovation in Business Conference.

"The airport and indeed aviation in our region was deeply influenced and shaped by Fred's vision for CAK," added McQueen. "He never gave up hope that the airport could serve as an important portal for air travel; offering low fares and an excellent customer experience. His vision and hope were unwavering and we who remain behind are equally committed to taking the airport to new heights. His spirit will soar freely at CAK forever more."

"The Airport's best days are still ahead of us."
Frederick J. Krum at his final board meeting

Click here to return to the media page.