David Parrot, founder of Titan Salvage, passes away – by Jack Gaston

He leaves his loving wife Penny, sons Hunter and Gage, and an enormous network of friends and family.

David Parrot was described by Tom Crowley Jr, chairman, president and CEO of Titan’s parent company, the Crowley Maritime Corporation, in terms with which his many friends in the salvage industry will readily concur. ‘He was a remarkable man who founded and helped build Titan into one of the premier marine salvage and wreck removal companies in the world today. He will be missed by many for his vision, determination and countless contributions, but most of all, for his friendship.’

Founded in 1980 by Parrot, Titan started as an undercapitalised, one tug towing firm, struggling to expand and make a name for itself. In 1982, Titan’s tug Nestor and her crew were hired as sub-contractors to assist one of the Dutch companies on a salvage/wreck removal in the Caribbean. When the job was no longer economically feasible for the Dutch firm, Titan successfully took over the operation. This achievement was a milestone for the company, marking the first of a long series of salvages and wreck removal jobs, which continues to this day. During the 1980s the company acquired more tugs, barges and cranes, enabling it to build a regional salvage and wreck removal business in the Caribbean.

Parrot’s long time business partner, Dick Fairbanks, joined the company in 1988. He also has had a lifelong exposure to the sea and had made his living in the marine field for many years. He brought a high degree of technical and business expertise to Titan. In 1992 Fairbanks’ vision and recognition of the realities of scale led Titan sell its tugs and most of its floating plant. This strategy allowed the company to expand and operate worldwide using vessels of opportunity near the site of a casualty and by flying in Titan’s own expert salvors and specialised equipment. This approach has proved to be the right for Titan and its clients, namely owners, underwriters and P&I Clubs. Today the company has headquarters in Pompano Beach, Florida and offices in the UK, Singapore and Australia. Titan was acquired by Crowley in 2005.

David’s success was achieved by a passion for salvage, creativity, honour, energy, dedication and courage. Throughout his career he inspired and touched the lives of many, stood strongly by his word and ultimately changed the shape of the salvage industry. David will be missed by all those whose lives he touched.