Barrie, ON — The city of Barrie and Canada’s broader manufacturing community are in mourning following the sudden and unexpected passing of Steve (Stephen) Loftus, a visionary leader, generous community advocate, and co-founder of Innovative Automation Inc. He was a cornerstone of Barrie’s industrial landscape for more than three decades — and his loss has left a profound silence where innovation, mentorship, and kindness once flourished.
🛠️ A Legacy of Innovation and Industry Leadership
In 1989, Loftus co-founded Innovative Automation alongside Paul Tyndall and Jim Carnegie. What began as a small operation quickly grew under Loftus’ steady guidance into a globally respected robotics and automation company serving top-tier automotive clients and manufacturers around the world.
His leadership was both technical and deeply human. As President from 2014 and later Chair of the Board, Loftus was credited with tripling the company’s workforce, overseeing its expansion into a 62,500-square-foot headquarters in Barrie, and nurturing a workplace culture that prioritized people over profits.
He was recognized nationally for his industry leadership — named CEO of the Year in 2020 for spearheading COVID-response manufacturing efforts, including producing face shields and ventilator components during a time of global need.
🌍 Local Heart, Global Reach
While Innovative Automation extended its influence across North America and Europe — including partnerships in Germany and Mexico — Loftus never strayed far from his roots. A proud graduate of Georgian College, he believed fiercely in giving back. In 2018, he personally championed a $250,000 donation to the college’s Advanced Technology, Innovation and Research Centre, supporting the next generation of engineering minds.
Loftus was not only a mentor to young professionals but a champion of fair wages, inclusive hiring practices, and community investment. Under his leadership, the company regularly raised significant funds for United Way, provided co-op placements for local students, and co-hosted community-wide events celebrating Barrie’s spirit.
💬 Shock and Sorrow Across the Community
While formal funeral arrangements have yet to be announced, tributes have begun pouring in from across Canada and beyond. Industry leaders, local officials, and longtime employees have described Loftus as a rare figure: equal parts engineer, entrepreneur, and empath.
“Steve wasn’t just a business leader — he was a people leader,” said one colleague. “He built machines, but more importantly, he built people. He believed in us before we believed in ourselves.”
Barrie Mayor [Name] issued a statement expressing “deepest condolences to the Loftus family and everyone at Innovative Automation,” calling his passing “a tremendous loss to the city and to Canadian manufacturing.”
🕯️ A Lasting Legacy
Steve Loftus leaves behind not only a world-class automation company, but also a business ethos centered on dignity, community, and lifelong learning. His sudden departure has created a void that will not be easily filled, but his legacy lives on — in every project built by his team, in every student mentored, and in every life touched by his generosity.
He is survived by his family, whose privacy is being respectfully honored during this difficult time.
In a world increasingly focused on speed and scale, Steve Loftus reminded us that innovation must also be compassionate — and that the greatest measure of success is how you treat people on the way up.
Barrie has lost a titan, and a friend.
May his memory continue to inspire.