Reading Coffee announces death of beloved founder

Albert VanMaanen was a pioneer in the coffee industry and dedicated his life to bringing people together through his craft.

It was a life well lived, according to representatives from Reading Coffee Co., who announced the death of the company’s founder.

VanMaannen died on September 26, aged 84.

He was not only a visionary in the specialty coffee industry, but a beloved figure in the community, company officials said in a statement.

VanMaanen founded Reading Coffee Roasters in 1989 and spent the next four decades growing the business from a small local shop into a respected name in the coffee world, authorities said.

In 2019, VanMaanen sold the company to his friend and fellow coffee enthusiast, Frank Orman, president and CEO of Reading Coffee Co.

The company said VanMaanen’s coffee is deeply rooted in his passion for creating meaningful connections.

“He believed that every cup of coffee should be an experience and poured his heart into perfecting blends that would bring people together,” they said.

VanMaanen was inspired by the cafes of Europe, where he was born and raised in the Netherlands.

Albert VanMaanen, right, founder of Reading Coffee Roasters, with current owner Frank Orman, president and CEO of Reading Coffee Co. VanMaanen passed away on September 26. (Courtesy of Reading Coffee Co.)

Its philosophy of brewing coffee with care has become the company’s guiding principle, influencing everything from bean selection to roasting techniques, the company said.

Known for his sharp wit and occasionally grumpy demeanor, VanMaanen’s heart was as big as his opinions, and he had a deep love for his family, friends and community, according to the company.

“Albert’s passing is a profound loss for our entire company,” said Orman. “He was not just a founder, but a coffee mentor, a guiding force and a friend. His legacy of coffee excellence will continue to inspire us as we move forward, always striving to honor the foundation he built.”

VanMaanen is survived by his wife, Rosemary Hartigan.

“He will be greatly missed by his family, friends and all who knew him, especially the company’s longtime employees,” the company said.

Anyone who would like to leave a message or souvenir can visit the Reading Coffee Company website.