In Memoriam: Bill Baxter
GAWDA extends its condolences to the friends and family of Bill Baxter, who passed away on August 18, 2024, at the age of 71, following a “relatively short battle with an aggressive form of cancer.” Bill was a giant, not only in the gases and welding industry but in Tennessee politics, known not only for his business works but also his philanthropy.
In the August 15th issue of the GAWDA Connection, Holston announced that the company had transitioned to its third-generation of leadership, with Robert Anders moving to a CEO role and Bill’s son, Joe Baxter taking over as President. Bill had taken the role as Chairman of the Board before his untimely passing.
“The man was tireless, infectious with his enthusiasm and optimism, and just was a wonderful role model for all of us here in East Tennessee,” Anders, Holston Gases President and CEO, said. “I communicated with Bill, at least in some form, just about every day for 34 years. We did life together and watched each other raise our kids.”
To read a full obituary, click here. Our thoughts are with the entire Holston and Baxter family during this difficult time.
Middlesex Gases Celebrates 75th Anniversary Milestone
This anniversary is an extraordinary accomplishment for one of the largest independently owned gas distributors, especially in light of the highly active acquisition environment of today’s gas industry. Yet, Middlesex has not just survived for 75 years—it is thriving, reaching heights its founder, welder Joseph Martin Sr., probably never imagined.
When Joseph Sr. started Middlesex Welding Supply in Everett, Massachusetts, in 1949, his desire was to build a strong, independent industrial gases distributorship. Over the next 20 years, he succeeded in doing that, and then some. In 1964, Joseph Sr. opened the company’s first fill plant located just outside of Boston, expanding the organization’s capabilities beyond just gas distribution to include filling as well. This growth mindset has remained a common theme for Middlesex and inspired three generations of the Martin family who have been at the helm of the company.
Bo Martin, Joseph Sr.’s grandson and current Middlesex chairman of the board, says, “For more than seven decades, we have followed in my grandfather’s footsteps, committing to continuous reinvestment, improvement and innovation. We are always striving to ensure that Middlesex is built to overcome any challenges and has the flexibility to pivot to meet customers’ ever-changing gas requirements.”
The breadth of what Middlesex has to offer customers today is a testament to this persistence. It has three fill plants; four supply stores; state-of-the-art specialty gas and medical CO2 labs; in-house dry ice manufacturing capabilities; and a large fleet of trucks and trailers, including a 10-ton medical CO2 bulk truck, a 25-ton bulk CO2 trailer, a jumbo helium tube trailer, and several bulk nitrogen and argon trailers. With this impressive infrastructure, Middlesex is able to provide gas solutions to a wide range of industries and organizations throughout New England, including the booming life sciences and biotech sector.
Tom Martin, Bo’s brother and Middlesex president and CEO, says, “In the early ’90s, we set our sights on becoming an elite specialty gas supplier to the life sciences and biotech industries. While these markets seemed promising, especially in our region, there were no guarantees they would flourish like they have. Being at the forefront of this exciting industry set us up for tremendous growth and, we believe, long-term success.”
Middlesex is now one of the foremost suppliers of specialty, medical and rare gases and Bulk, MicroBulk and cryopreservation gas systems to life sciences and biotechnology companies. These sectors make up approximately 85% of its gas-related business. They are such a critical part of the company’s future that Middlesex rebranded to better reflect its commitment to these markets, including officially changing its name to Middlesex Gases and redesigning its website.
Despite all the changes over the years, at its core, Middlesex is still a family business, with a tight-knit, relationship-focused culture. Bo says, “From the sales reps to the fillers and drivers, every single person at Middlesex Gases cares about providing superior service. But, as importantly, we have all developed personal and unique friendships with and mutual respect for our customers, vendors and network partners. We have immense gratitude for their long-time loyalty and support and share this achievement of 75 years with all of them.”
One anniversary activity that has already taken place was a company golf outing with customers, vendors and network partners. In addition, Middlesex will be promoting anniversary specials and sales on its social media channels LinkedIn, Facebook and X.
