In a February letter to AGCO employees, Bob Crain, vice president of North American operations, reported that James Seavers, one of the original founders of AGCO Corp., unexpectedly passed away on February 16. Mr. Seavers would have been 68 on March 8.

James Seavers

In his letter, Crain wrote, “Mr. Seaver was an original founder of AGCO Corp. in 1990 and a critical part of the executive leadership team for 15 years before his retirement in 2005. Mr. Seaver is credited with shaping much of AGCO into the company it is today and played a critical role in the sales and marketing growth, seeing the company grow from $300 million to $5.2 billion at the time of his retirement. He served the company as Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing; Chief Executive Officer, AGCO Finance Group; and Senior Vice President, Worldwide Sales. Prior to that time he served the company in various other senior office positions.

“Upon Mr. Seaver’s retirement in 2005, AGCO CEO, Martin Richenhagen commented, “His contribution to AGCO’s growth is immeasurable, and he should be very proud of his accomplishments. We certainly are.” Former AGCO CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors, Bob Ratliff added, “He has been a wise advisor and good friend, not just to me, but to everyone who had the good fortune of working with Jim.” During his time with AGCO, Mr. Seaver touched the lives of many AGCO employees still with us today as well as the entire dealer network in North America and abroad. He will be remembered as a great mentor, dear friend and respected colleague. 

“Mr. Seaver is survived by his wife, Susan Seaver of Johns Creek, Ga., his son, Christopher Seaver and daughter-in-law, Cara Seaver and two grandsons, Charlie and Sawyer, of Decatur, Ga., a sister Ann Brinson and husband Glenn of West Palm Beach, Fl.; a nephew Bob Brinson and family of Atlanta, Ga.; a niece, Beth DesJardin and family of West Palm Beach, Fl. and Brother-in-law, Vincent Lauria and wife, Marcia of Atlanta, Ga.”

A Funeral Mass was held on Friday, February 21, 2014 at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church, 11045 Parsons Road, Duluth, Ga.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations can be sent to the American Heart Association in the name of James M. Seaver. 

Obituary:

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