Lamson Rheinfrank Jr., 84
Lamson Rheinfrank Jr., always known as Choppy, died Sunday, April 27, 2025, in Acton at age 84. Choppy was a bright light — kind, joyful, generous, and intellectually curious. He thrived on social interaction and radiated an optimistic outlook throughout his life. A true family man, a loyal friend, and a creative and successful entrepreneur, he charmed all he encountered with infectious humor and spirit.
Choppy was born in Toledo, Ohio, on August 5, 1940, the son of the late Lamson and Lydia Spitzer Rheinfrank of Eagle Point Colony, Rossford, Ohio. He graduated from Maumee Valley Country Day School in 1958 and Williams College in 1962, where he majored in political economics and played on the varsity football team. Choppy married Sally Breese Lyman of Wellesley in June 1963.
Choppy founded Standard Havens Inc. in 1967 in Kansas City, Missouri, manufacturing asphalt road-making equipment. The company went public and was acquired by Raytheon. He grew a division within the company — BHA Group, Inc. — into a global manufacturer and supplier of parts and services to capture industrial particulate pollution. One of the company’s innovative solutions — a waterproof and breathable membrane branded eVENT— remains a clothing industry standard today. BHA was sold to General Electric.
Choppy served on boards, including Commerce Bank, Midwest Research Institute, and the University of Missouri-Kansas City. He was an alumni trustee of Williams College. He and Sally were avid supporters of the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the Kansas City Friends of Chamber Music. In retirement, they joined the Captiva Civic Association, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation, and the Ding Darling National Wildlife Foundation.
He leaves his cherished wife of 62 years, Sally, and his four daughters and sons-in-law: Caroline Rheinfrank and Chopper Bernet; Virginia (Gina) and Willy Foote; Emily and John Birknes, MD; and Lydia Rheinfrank and Kyle Rusconi. He was “Grandchop” to Nevin, Angus, and Fiona Bernet; Charlotte, Thaddeus, and James Foote; Madeline, Cora, and Lydia Birknes; and Mae, Anna, and Tessa Rusconi. He also leaves his sister, Jenny Barthold; his nephews and niece,Stephen, Jeffrey, and Lydia Hankins; their families; and many cousins.
The family thanks the caring staff of Acton Park Compass Memory Care, Care Dimensions Hospice Care, and the aides from Kalinoski Elder Care Services LLC. Donations in Choppy’s honor may be made to any of the above organizations or Williams College, Williamstown, MA 01267.
Services will be private.
Arrangements under the care of Acton Funeral Home, concordfuneral.com.
