Respironics Founder Jerry McGinnis Passes Away at 89
It has long been agreed that Gerald "Jerry" McGinnis, the founder of Respironics, was one of Pittsburgh's true technology titans, creating one of the region's most successful and recognizable medical product companies. Jerry was 89 years old leaving behind an incredible legacy of accomplishments that were vital the development of Pittsburgh as a tech and medical device center of innovation.
His remarkable journey began in the mid-1970s when he established Respironics, a pioneering company focused on providing respiratory technology solutions for sleep apnea and anesthesia. Under his visionary leadership, Respironics revolutionized the medical device industry, developing groundbreaking therapies that improved the quality of life for countless individuals worldwide. Respironics went public in 1988 and was acquired by Philips in 2007 for more than $5 billion.
Beyond his exceptional entrepreneurial success, McGinnis was renowned for his unwavering commitment to giving back to the community. He recognized the importance of investing in Pittsburgh's future and played an instrumental role in developing the city's technology sector. McGinnis endowed the McGinnis Venture Competition, run annually by the Swartz Center at Carnegie Mellon University. As a respected mentor and investor, he supported numerous startups, fostering an environment of innovation and growth. McGinnis' dedication to Pittsburgh's thriving tech ecosystem earned him the admiration and gratitude of his peers.
“Jerry was a true friend and supporter to the life sciences community. In addition to his investments, he was a believer in quality patient care and safety," said serial medical device entrepreneur Pete DeComo. "He was a true mentor to many in the life sciences and startup community. He had a significant positive impact on patient care and entrepreneurs in the Pittsburgh region and beyond.”
"Jerry was the quiet giant of the Pittsburgh technology community. While he was best known for Respironics, he probably touched more technology companies than any other person in Pittsburgh as an investor, advisor and mentor," said Jay Katarincic of Magarac Venture Partners. "Jerry would always make time for an entrepreneur and help in any way possible. All of us in the Pittsburgh technology community owe it to Jerry to try and continue the legacy he created."
Learn more about McGinnis through some of the local media coverage: