Nominated 2017. A native of Milwaukee Wisconsin, Phillip Sass left his job as a food chemist and moved to Berlin in 1973 when he and a partner launched Wisconsin Spice, Inc. in an abandoned 19th century building located on Capron St. In the 35 years since its inception, Wisconsin Spice has grown from its humble beginnings into a global powerhouse in the mustard industry supplying over 25 countries with its products.
In 1985, Sass, now sole owner, moved the company to its existing facility in Berlin’s South Industrial Park as the first occupant in the newly created park. Multiple additions have helped the company grow in place.
Sass has given back to the community even while growing the company. For more than 20 years – 1985 to 2016 – he was coach of the Berlin Barracuda Swim Team, donating 25-30 hours/week to coaching, preparing for practices, and attending swim meets. During that time, the team had swimmers compete at the State level every year, and frequently had swimmers qualify for “Zone” regional championships as well. There were several swimmers who qualified for national competitions under the coaching of Sass, and multiple swimmers went on to compete at Division I and II universities.
Additionally, Sass led a group that was instrumental in convincing the School Board to include a girls’ and boys’ swim team at Berlin High School beginning in 1994. He was coach of that team from its inception to 2007. During that time, Sass coached four state champions and several All-State swimmers. He led the boys’ team to win the State Championship in 2001. He was named Boys’ Coach of the Year (Division 2) in 2001 and Girls’ Coach of the Year (Division 2) in 2002.
Throughout his life, Phil Sass has made community service, volunteerism and mentorship the cornerstones of his life. The accomplishments he achieved are the outcome of his own strict adherence to the 3 D’s – Desire, Determination, and Dedication.