Joseph F. Trustey

1962-2015

Joe joined Summit in 1992 and for more than two decades, he was instrumental in defining and executing the firm’s strategy and shaping its culture. As a Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer, Joe was passionately committed to serving our investors and our portfolio companies, and he cherished the relationships and success we shared together.

Over the course of his career at Summit, Joe led investments in more than 25 companies, including Belkin, B&W Loudspeakers, Central Security Group, Grand Design RV, Keystone RV Company, Parts Town, Progressive Finance, Suburban Ostomy Supply Company, QuietStream Financial, Vivint, Vivint Solar and Wilmar Industries.

Joe served as a mentor to many young professionals entering the growth equity industry. He fostered leadership and encouraged creativity. He took the time to know his team on a personal level, marking anniversaries, engagements, weddings and births. Many members of the Summit family—including those that have gone on to successful careers outside of Summit—consider Joe a loyal friend and credit him with supporting them at the start of their career.

Joe loved practical jokes and relished the challenge of amusing and entertaining those around him. He had a sterling intellect, a quick wit, a genuine warmth and a complete lack of pretense—all characteristics that allowed Joe to establish fast and lifelong connections. From the man on the street to the seasoned CEO, he could relate with everyone on a personal level.

Prior to joining Summit, Joe served as a Captain in the U.S. Army and worked as a consultant for Bain & Co. He received a BS in Chemical Engineering from the University of Notre Dame and earned an MBA from the Harvard Business School where he was a Baker Scholar.

At Summit and beyond, Joe led by example—with absolute integrity and honesty. He committed himself wholeheartedly to the organizations, institutions and individuals he touched, and we at Summit benefited greatly from this dedication. He was deeply, but often quietly, philanthropic, dedicating his time and his resources to countless efforts, including Team Daisy’s annual Pan Mass Challenge ride, the Citi Performing Arts Center, Shore Country Day School, Brooks School, Hannah & Friends, and his beloved alma mater, the University of Notre Dame.

Above all else, Joe adored spending time with his family. He was the devoted husband of Kris Trustey and the very proud father of A.J., Caroline, Anna and Claire. Joe passed away on July 29, 2015, in an accident that also claimed the life of his daughter, Anna.

As we strive to honor Joe’s legacy and continue his model of selfless giving, Summit Partners has endowed a fund at the University of Notre Dame. The Joseph F. Trustey Endowment for Excellence will continue Joe’s commitment to maximizing the campus experience for all students at his alma mater, with a specific mission to underwrite those aspects of campus life not covered by traditional financial aid.

A true friend, a trusted colleague and an inspiring leader, Joe embodied the spirit of Summit Partners. He is truly missed.