In Memoriam: Paul Slizik
GAWDA extends its condolences to the friends and family of Paul Slizik who passed away on June 16th at the age of 86. Butler Gas announced the tragic news of Paul’s passing in its company newsletter:
“Paul started with Butler Gas as a Truck Driver and retired decades later in 2002 as Vice President of Sales. His heart and passion for the customer built the service culture of our organization.
By 1975 in Butler Gas History, founder Jack Butler’s son, John T. II (also, Jack), began taking responsibility for running the company. Founder Jack had developed cancer and relied on young Jack to earn leadership of the business. Jack Sr. died in 1977, and his son Jack purchased the company as President at age 25. This tragic yet smooth transition between the first and second generations in our family business history was possible due to the mentorship by Paul Slizik. “He knew the business better than anyone,” shares Chairman Jack Butler, reflecting on the mid-1970s. “He was tough, helped me recognize that our customers pay our paychecks, and at the end of the day, I knew I wouldn’t fail under his watch.” Paul passed on June 16th at the wise age of 86.”
To read a full obituary, click here.
nexAir Acquires WELSCO
According to a press release on its website, nexAir expanded its reach with its acquisition of WELSCO.
“Gas, welding, and operational services nexAir has acquired WELSCO, an Arkansas-based supplier of industrial and welding supplies.
Announced July 8th, the purchase expands nexAir’s reach Arkansas and Oklahoma. This will complement nexAir’s existing 70 plus locations in the southeastern US.
Bill Proctor, President of nexAir, said, “This expansion is aimed at boosting productivity for both our current and future customers in these areas, reinforcing our commitment to growth and excellence.”
WELSCO was founded as Welder’s Supply Company in 1941 and has since grown into a business with 16 locations in Arkansas and the surrounding states.
As one of the largest independent, female-owned industrial gas and welding distribution companies, WELSCO serves a complete welding and cutting equipment distributor with a full selection of industrial gases for welding, cutting, plasma, and lasers.
Angela Harrison, CEO of WELSCO, said she is excited for the next chapter.
She added, “We have known and worked with our friends at nexAir for decades and are glad to be joining a company with a similar culture focused on doing what is best for the customer and our employees.”
“Customers will continue to be served by the same faces and service that they have come to expect from WELSCO. This marks the beginning of a new chapter for WELSCO while honouring the legacy built over several generations.”
Atlas Welding Supply Announces Move to Brand New Location
In a post on its company LinkedIn Page, Atlas Welding Supply announced that it is moving to a new location. The company’s new location is “designed to better serve our valued customers with increased capacity and enhanced services.”
Atlas discussed how the new location will impact the future of the company in the 3rd Quarter Issue of Welding & Gases Today in an interview discussing the company’s 80th anniversary.
In a post on the company’s LinkedIn page, Ozarc Gas announced that it had added a new 5.5-ton CO2 tanker to its fleet. “We couldn’t be more excited about the enhanced delivery capabilities that it brings to the table. This addition is set to make a significant impact on our ability to serve our valued cannabis customers in an even more efficient and reliable manner,” the company said.
“Furthermore, it will provide valuable support for our Bev Carb routes, ensuring that we continue to meet and exceed the expectations of all our customers. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of service and reliability, and this new tanker is a testament to that commitment. We can’t wait to see the positive impact it will have on our operations and the satisfaction of our customers.”
To learn more, click here.
Toll Company Launches New Website
Toll Company announced on LinkedIn that it had launched a new website.
Visit the new Toll website by clicking here.
Welders Supply Company Names Matt Hanks as New Store Manager for Big Bend
Welders Supply Company announced that it had welcomed Matt Hanks as its new Store Manager for its Big Bend location. “Matt comes with extensive knowledge and experience in welding equipment and we’re excited for him to take on his new role. Welcome to the team, Matt!”
