Leon served as the Technical Director of Paper and Packaging at SGS U.S. Testing Company, where he built and led a state-of-the-art paper and package testing laboratory. He was instrumental in assembling and mentoring a highly skilled packaging team and played a key role on the Technical Competency Support Center Team, supporting both the SGS global network and private industry.

Before joining SGS, Leon dedicated 30 years to Container Testing Laboratory (CTL), where he rose through the ranks from Laboratory Technician to Vice President of Technical Services and Director of Operations. His work was pivotal in helping the National Safe Transmit Committee (NSTC) demonstrate the importance of laboratory testing to Mr. Ralph Day, Packaging Director at United Parcel Service. This effort led to the adoption of the ISTA 1A procedure as UPS’s standard for package performance. Leon also contributed to the Quality Control Research Team, helping to develop standards for corrugated fiberboard boxes used by the Uniform Freight and National Motor Freight Classification Committees.

Throughout his 45-year career, Leon was a passionate and active member of ISTA. He served on the ISTA Board of Directors, chaired ISTA Forums, and was honored with the ISTA Educational Foundation’s R. David LeButt Award. His professional affiliations included the IoPP College of Fellows, Certified for Life CPP-MH, ASTM, TAPPI, and UN/DOT certification. He was a dedicated committee member of ASTM D-10, D-26, and F-04.

Leon is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Barbara (White) Venech; his son, Justin Venech; daughter-in-law, Debbie; and his cherished grandchildren: Abigail, Madeline, Elizabeth, and Andrew.

ISTA is grateful for the legacy Leon leaves behind. His contributions shaped our organization and the industry, and his warmth and generosity touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. At ISTA, we often said, “You won’t find a person with a bigger heart,” and those who met Leon gained a friend for life. 

View his obituary here: Leon Venech Obituary – September 7, 2025 – Spear-Miller Funeral Home