† Obituary: Charles (Hank) Salemi Died

The sudden death of Charles “Hank” Salemi moves the theme park industry. On January 9, 2022, the park president of Six Flags Great America passed away. He is survived by his wife, Kathleen, and his daughter Claire. “An excellent leader in our industry who brought passion and care to his team at Six Flags Great America and their guests,” IAAPA President & CEO Hal McEvoy said in a moving letter, describing the decreased, who had been part of the industry for many years and was actively involved in the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions. Salemi had led the Illinois-based Six Flags park since 2006, and was active as committee chair of IAAPA’s Strategic Planning Committee until the end. Prior to that, he also played a key role as treasurer on IAAPA’s board of directors. In 2019, IAAPA honored him with a “Special Service Award” for his dedication within the association. The industry mourns with the bereaved. (eap)