It is with a sense of loss and gratitude that I write to note the passing of a business leader and community leader who was a genuinely positive example of humanity. The notice of Mr. Kirk Patrick Pond’s recent passing at the age of 78, published in the Oct. 30 Maine Sunday Telegram, pointed out many of the roles that Mr. Pond held throughout his life.

Mr. Pond, while he did not start the semiconductor industry in Maine, did arguably more than anyone to nurture and grow it. As a consequence, thousands of Mainers and New Englanders have been able to make a very good living and offer positive contributions to our community and society.

Mr. Pond was instrumental in the location of National Semiconductor’s headquarters here in South Portland in the mid-1990s. A few years later, his advocacy, aided by that of then Gov. Angus King, led National Semiconductor to commit to a new fabrication facility in South Portland. Were it not for his leadership, the facility likely would have been built somewhere else.

Today, semiconductor firms employ more than 1,000 individuals in various facilities here in the city of South Portland. While I suspect that Mr. Pond would not wish to be singled out with this recognition, to pause and offer gratitude for his legacy seems the least we can do. We can also honor his legacy by continuing to support these businesses, as well as spinoff operations and related businesses throughout our region and beyond.

William J. Mann
Economic Development Director
City of South Portland