Rob Pullen, CEO of Tellabs, dies

A 30-year veteran of the Naperville Ill.-based vendor, Pullen was diagnosed with cancer on April 20 this year. He was in the process of recovering from surgery and was receiving ongoing cancer treatment. 

"We extend our sympathies to Rob's wife Dawn, his children Brittany and Brendan, and his family," wrote Birck in a letter. "Our thoughts and prayers are with them."

Pullen began his long career with Tellabs in January 1985 where he served as an electrical engineer. During his 27-year career with the vendor, he rose through the ranks to become CEO serving in various research and development, sales, marketing, and services roles.

Before being promoted to CEO in February 2008, Pullen served as Tellabs' VP and general manager of global services, a role where he introduced new professional services at the company.

During his three-year tenure as senior vice president of North American sales from 2002–2005, Pullen was credited with two major accomplishments: integrating two acquisitions, including the former Advanced Fibre Communications (AFC), and doubling North American sales. Previously, Pullen was senior vice president of the optical networking group for Tellabs.

Dan Kelly, who was appointed by the company's board as acting president and CEO, will continue to lead Tellabs.