Jon Stryker

Grandfather Homer Stryker (d. 1980) surgeon who created mobile hospital bed; started medical supplier Stryker Corp. Son Lee died in plane crash 1976. John Brown took reins; public in 1979. Now makes joint replacements, surgical tools, medical software. Third generation now controls 30% of medical device maker; shares down 10% so far this year. Sales in 2007: $6 billion. Profits up 14% in second quarter to $306 million. Jon's foundation gives to progressive politics, support of great apes.