It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Daniel “Danny” Rifkin, the cherished founder of MetalX, on April 2, 2025. Danny was not merely a leader; he was the heart and soul of the company, a visionary who dedicated his life to building an industry leader in the scrap business. His sudden departure has left a significant void not only within the company but also within the broader community and the scrap industry that he loved so deeply. As we process this loss, we are reminded of the immense contributions he made, not only through MetalX but through his passion for people and the values he instilled in those around him.
Danny Rifkin’s journey began with a vision, one that recognized opportunities in the scrap industry where others saw only challenges. He set out to create a company that would not only provide outstanding services but also build a community rooted in trust, respect, and hard work. From the outset, his unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation propelled MetalX forward. But Danny’s vision extended beyond simply creating a successful business; he was intent on building a company culture that would inspire employees, foster strong relationships, and create a lasting impact on the industry.
Under Danny’s leadership, MetalX grew from its humble beginnings into the recognized name it is today. Through his hard work, determination, and innovative approach, the company became a leader in the scrap industry, known for its integrity and excellence. He always emphasized that it was not about what you did but how you did it, and Danny consistently demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to doing everything with integrity, respect, and excellence. His ability to overcome obstacles and innovate in an industry that often seemed resistant to change is a testament to his foresight and dedication.
Danny was much more than a businessman; he was a mentor, a friend, and a role model to everyone who worked alongside him. His leadership style was characterized by empathy, understanding, and a genuine desire to see others succeed. He was never too busy to offer guidance, lend a listening ear, or offer encouragement when it was needed most. His ability to connect with people, both professionally and personally, made him a cherished figure in the company. It was this personal connection that made Danny not just the founder of MetalX but also the lifeblood of its culture.
The company that Danny built is not just a business—it is a community. MetalX is known for its strong sense of camaraderie, and much of this can be attributed to Danny’s leadership. He understood that a company is only as strong as the people behind it, and he was deeply committed to empowering his employees to succeed. He didn’t just build a successful company; he created an environment where people felt valued and inspired to give their best. The culture of hard work, integrity, and respect that Danny established is something that continues to define MetalX today, and it will be his lasting legacy.
Beyond the workplace, Danny’s impact was felt in the broader community as well. He was known for his generosity, his dedication to giving back, and his unwavering commitment to the causes that mattered most to him. Danny believed that success wasn’t just about what you achieved but also about how you contributed to the lives of others. His philanthropic efforts reflected his deep commitment to education, community, and the preservation of history. Through his charitable giving, Danny touched many lives, and his legacy of giving back will continue long after his passing.
In honor of his memory, the Rifkin family has invited donations to several organizations that were particularly meaningful to Danny. These include the Fort Wayne Center for Learning, Congregation Achduth Vesholom, the Jewish Federation of Fort Wayne, and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. Each of these institutions reflects Danny’s dedication to education, community, and remembrance—values that were at the core of his own life and work. Danny was a man who believed in the importance of learning from history, supporting the next generation, and ensuring that others had the opportunity to thrive.
As we mourn Danny’s passing, we also celebrate the incredible foundation he laid for all of us. His commitment to excellence, his belief in people, and his vision for the future will continue to guide MetalX and everyone who had the privilege of working with him. While his presence will be deeply missed, his spirit will live on through the work we do every day. Danny’s influence is woven into the very fabric of the company, and his legacy will continue to shape the way we operate, the relationships we build, and the impact we have on the world around us.
Danny’s passing has left a void, but it is also a reminder of the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of others. His integrity, vision, and generosity are qualities we will continue to honor by living up to the example he set. As his colleagues, friends, and loved ones, we carry forward the lessons Danny taught us: the importance of treating others with respect, the power of innovation, and the value of community.
In memory of Danny, a service will be held on Sunday, April 6, 2025. This will be a time for all those who were touched by his life and work to come together to celebrate his legacy. More details regarding the service will be made available in the coming days. The Rifkin family has expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support they’ve received and invites anyone who wishes to honor Danny’s memory to join them in remembering his life and contributions.
As we say goodbye to our beloved founder, we remember Danny not only for the company he built but for the extraordinary person he was. His generosity, vision, and commitment to others have left an indelible mark on all of us. We will continue to carry forward his legacy, ensuring that his spirit lives on in all that we do. To the Rifkin family, we extend our deepest sympathies, and to Danny’s colleagues, friends, and community members—thank you for being a part of his life. Your support and dedication to his vision will ensure that MetalX remains a company founded on the same principles of integrity, respect, and excellence that Danny championed.
May his memory be a blessing, and may we all find ways to honor the incredible life of Danny Rifkin through our actions, the work we do, and the legacy we continue to build.
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