November 9, 2023 – John Penhollow, the former Director of National Accounts at Medical Action Industries, passed away on October 4 surrounded by his immediate family.
Penhollow was affectionately known in the industry as the “Godfather of National Accounts” and many in our industry learned from, looked up to and tried to emulate his professionalism and the quiet diplomatic approach that John took in good times and in very challenging times. His welcoming smile would brighten any room that he entered, and Penhollow was respected nationally by his GPO and IDN customers as well as his competitors.
Penhollow, along with Rick Owens, started the National Accounts Forum for small suppliers to gain access to the leaders of the GPOs and IDNs in an intimate setting that allowed for literal fireside chats that often facilitated GPO’s and IDN’s asking for feedback from the suppliers that were participating. The NAF continues to this day and is approaching 30 years of providing a unique forum for learning and networking. His career started selling cookies in Seattle. After that, he went to work for the Kendall Company and later Vollrath Plastics, which became Medical Action Industries.
He always loved the ocean, sailing and being with family and friends. Please join us at the Balboa Yacht Club, overlooking the harbor, to come together and celebrate his life. Details are below.
Sunday, November 19, 2023
- 11:30 a.m. – luncheon gathering
- 1:00 p.m. – tribute
- Balboa Yacht Club – 1801 Bayside Dr, Corona Del Mar, CA
Valet parking will be provided. Please RSVP via text to Kim Gordon at 952-807-1360 or Lori Forman at 949-212-1294.
Late in his life, Penhollow faced Parkinson’s. If you would like to make a donation in his memory, please consider The Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.