IRVINE, Calif., September 7, 2005– Haskell & White LLP, one of the largest independently owned accounting, auditing and tax-consulting firms in Orange County, today sadly announced the passing of Steven Haskell, age 52, partner and co-founder of the firm, after a fourteen-month battle with cancer. The Orange County business community and accounting industry are mourning the loss of an industry veteran and recognized expert in the areas of real estate planning, partnership reorganization, entity and transactional structuring as well as tax planning.
Haskell & White was established in 1988 when a well-known regional CPA firm with four offices in California separated into four independent operating entities, with the Newport Beach office becoming Haskell & White. Today, the organization is one of the largest locally owned accounting firms in Orange County, with more than 70 employees serving mid- to large-size businesses in Orange, Los Angeles, San Diego and Riverside counties. Haskell laid a solid foundation, evident in the firm’s continued growth, expansion and leadership succession. He functioned at the firm’s helm until 2004, when Wayne Pinnell succeeded him as managing partner, enabling Haskell to take on the new role of director of special operations. In his new role, Haskell was responsible for coaching and mentoring firm members, and ensuring a great environment in which to work.
“Steve Haskell and Dave White built the firm based on a set of core values including consistently providing the highest level of technical expertise and service to the clients and making the firm a great place to work,” said Pinnell, managing partner of Haskell & White. “This vision, coupled with Steve’s commitment to the development and mentoring of personnel and the firm’s commitment to corporate and personal philanthropy set the organization apart from other large, independent firms in the region. Steve’s legacy will continue at the firm as we support local businesses with sound accounting services and continue to support the arts and philanthropic groups in Orange County.”
For employees at Haskell & White, the impact Steve Haskell had on the firm is undeniable. Recently, the organization was recognized by an Orange County publication as one of the best companies to work for in Orange County, largely due to the culture developed by Haskell.
“His lasting mark is that he oversaw the development of a long-term strategy for the firm,” commented Pinnell. “Steve had an uncanny ability to choose the right people for the right job, and he surrounded himself with people who could accomplish the firm’s vision.”
“His vision of being the best CPA firm and a great place to work remains unchanged,” said Brad Graves, partner. “We want to make sure his legacy grows and prospers. Everybody will miss Steve’s physical presence in our lives, but all that we have built here will be a reminder of his continuing impact on our lives.”
Steve Haskell is survived by a wife, three children, and more than 70 dedicated employees.
ABOUT HASKELL & WHITE
Haskell & White is one of the largest independently owned accounting, auditing and tax-consulting firms in southern California, specializing in servicing public and private middle market companies. Haskell & White combines the expansive services, knowledge, experience and reach of national and international accounting firms with the personal attention, responsiveness and affordability of a local organization. Haskell & White works with companies in a broad range of industries including real estate, manufacturing, distribution, technology, and retail. The firm provides solid expertise and services to its clients in the tax and audit disciplines including advising SEC registrants and consulting on mergers and acquisitions. Further information on Haskell & White can be found at the firm website, www.hwcpa.com.
Media contact: Emily Carlton, HKA, Inc. (714) 426-0444; Emily@hkamarcom.com