In 1967, Richard Iosso made zinc harder. He developed several breakthrough metallurgical processes in his career, including a chrome-plating method that hardened metals such as zinc.
Iosso, founder of Iosso Products, passed away March 28 at age 87, after a brief illness. His daughter, Iosso Products Vice President Marianne Iosso, shared the news of his passing.
Iosso’s chrome-plating method, IOSSO-FE, was patented in 27 countries. Parts using the IOSSO-FE method were used on the Apollo 11 mission.
Shortly after his success, Iosso founded Iosso Metal Processes in 1970 and its subsidiary Iosso Products in 1983. Iosso Products is a family-owned Elk Grove Village, Illinois, company that manufactures cleaning products serving marine, RV, aviation, household and industrial markets.
Iosso was a U.S. Army veteran, born and raised in Chicago. After Iosso was discharged, he lived there with his high school sweetheart and formed a band. With a background in chemistry and business, Iosso also enjoyed music throughout his life.
Iosso split his time between his Illinois home and Anna Maria Island in Florida. He enjoyed fishing, cooking and photography.
Iosso and his daughter often worked trade shows together, where Iosso loved to crack jokes. He is survived by his business partner and wife, their two daughters and many grandchildren.
