John Norris Jr. was the grandson of Lennox founder D.W. Norris and, during a 46-year career, was instrumental in the company's tremendous growth. He had retired in 2006.
Ron Smith touched thousands of people in the HVAC industry, ignited successful business strategies for struggling contractors, launched and sold innovative enterprises, and transformed the lives of many contractors.
After working in the textile industry, Kimble found his calling in the HVAC industry. He worked for several companies, finishing up his career with 18 years at Jackson Systems & Supply.
Bidwell’s success as a franchisee led Neighborly to recruit him to its world headquarters in Waco, Texas, in 1995. He had been president and CEO since January 2014.
Douglas O’Brien spent some 48 years in the HVAC industry, beginning in 1956. He was the longtime president of McPherson Furnace and Equipment Co. and an active member of the Northamerican Heating, Refrigeration & Airconditioning Wholesalers Association.
Hammer, president and general manager of the commercial HVAC company Atlantic Westchester Inc., fought a short but courageous battle with leukemia, the company said.
