Caterpillar’s Ed Rapp to retire following ALS diagnosis

Caterpillar group president with responsibility for the company’s Resources Industries business, Ed Rapp, has announced his retirement following a diagnosis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. He has worked for Caterpillar for 36 years and has previously served as the company's chief financial officer (CFO) and president of its Construction Industries division.

“Early retirement was not part of my plan,” said Mr Rapp. “But I have recently been diagnosed with ALS – better known as Lou Gehrig’s disease – a disease that currently has no known cure. My decision to leave Caterpillar and its people was the toughest choice I have ever faced.

"I love Caterpillar, especially the people I get to work with at all levels of the company, including dealers, suppliers and customers. But, I have a new challenge in front of me, and along with my family, I will now turn my focus and attention to the next chapter in life, which will include fighting the disease, raising awareness and supporting those in search of a cure."

Mr Rapp will remain with Caterpillar at the head of the Resource Industries into early 2016. The company plans to announce a replacement for him early next year.

Caterpillar Chairman and CEO, Doug Oberhelman said, “The entire Caterpillar family, its employees, dealers, customers, suppliers and others who have had the opportunity to get to know Ed during his career – everyone he has touched – will be keeping him and his family in their thoughts and prayers. I have had the honour of working with Ed for more than 30 years, and I can’t think of another leader who better exemplifies Caterpillar’s values and who has had such a positive impact on our global employees. Personally, and for the company, Ed’s deep and broad Caterpillar experience, thoughtful leadership and guidance will be deeply missed.”