Bill Kiefer passed away on Friday, March 20, 2015. He owned and operated B&G Fireplace & Patio in Canton, Ohio, for the past 45 years. His daughter, Susan, now runs the business. Bill also operated a two-step distributorship for many years, selling hearth and barbecue products to dealers in Ohio and Western Pennsylvania.

Bill was definitely a “hands on” owner. He worked with many of his dealers in their stores, helping them to become better businessmen. He always had a smile on his face and would gladly help anyone who asked.

He was also very active with the national association. Whether it was the Fireplace Institute in the ’70s, the Wood Heating Alliance in the ’80s, the Hearth Products Association in the ’90s or the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association in the 2000s, he was always involved.  

Many of his years of service were dedicated to the Trade Show Committee, on which he later served as chairman. The industry owes a debt of gratitude to people such as Bill, who oversaw the growth and expansion of the HPBExpo to what it has become today. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Karen, four daughters, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.