The dealer community is saddened by the loss of Al Scibetta, president and founder of Copier Fax Business Technologies, who passed away Jan. 2 at the age of 72 following a brief illness, the company revealed on its website.
Mr. Scibetta and his wife, Andrea, founded Buffalo-based Copier Fax Business Technologies in 1990 as a Konica Minolta dealership. During the past 30-plus years, the Scibettas grew the company into one of the region’s leading technology providers. His son, David, joined the firm in 1997 as a partner.
“Al was an icon in the office technology industry,” the website message read. “He was a frequent guest speaker and presenter at Select Dealer Group conferences, Konica Minolta conferences, and other related panels across the country. Additionally, under Al’s leadership, Copier Fax was named a Konica Minolta Dealer Award of Excellence and received several local recognitions for business growth, Best Places to Work, and ranking as one of Buffalo’s Top Private Companies.”
In a statement, Patrick Banno, president and CEO of Konica Minolta, wrote, “I would like to offer my deepest sympathies to Al’s family. Al has been a great leader and a friend to our industry, whom many of us will miss. His memory will remain in our hearts forever.”
Mr. Scibetta was also active in philanthropic endeavors for the western New York region, supporting organizations such as Summit Education Center, Buffalo Hospice, Roswell Park, and Child & Family Services of Western New York. He also served on the Cardinal O’Hara board of directors.
An ardent fan of Buffalo sports team, he rooted for the hockey Sabres and football Bills, and was particularly passionate about the New York Yankees baseball team. Italian cuisine was also a love for Mr. Scibetta, who was famous for making homemade pizza from scratch.
Mr. Scibetta was also a patriot with a deep love of country, having served in the U.S. Army. He relished the opportunity to foster meaningful relationships with employees, clients and industry colleagues.
“He made every person he met feel welcomed, and always loved to share a good laugh,” the dealership wrote.
In addition to Andrea, his wife of 27 years, and son David, Mr. Scibetta is survived by children Paul (Krissy), Angela, Anthony (Jessica) and George, plus David’s wife, Heather. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren, with another on the way. A celebration of Mr. Scibetta’s life will be held later this year.