Fountain Tire has announced the passing of industry leader Brian Hesje.

The former Fountain Tire CEO and Board Chair died on December 5 with his family by his side.

“Brian was a mentor and role model for the automotive industry in Canada,” said Fountain Tire CEO Brent Hesje. “From our corporate head office and across our network of stores, Brian created many opportunities for our associates and partners to serve customers with integrity. His leadership, work ethic and wry sense of humour will be missed.”

Instrumental role

Brian Hesje joined Fountain Tire in 1984 and rose through the company ranks as Vice President and ultimately, President. He later served as CEO from 1992-2005, and as Chair of the Fountain Tire board of directors from 2005 until 2014.

A career highlight was his instrumental role in the deal that saw Goodyear Canada purchase a minority position in the company in 1988.

In 2003, Hesje was the recipient of the Henry Singer Award for exceptional leadership by the Canadian Institute of Retailing and Services (CIRAS).

In 2010, he was invited by the Tire Industry Association (TIA) to join its Environmental Advisory Council. Committed to Alberta’s business community, Hesje served on multiple public and private boards throughout his career. He was also an accomplished author and a well-known philanthropist, donating to many initiatives in educational, professional, and recreational fields.

“Fountain Tire was founded on the principles of partnership, innovation and the drive to succeed. Brian exemplified these values throughout his 30-year career with our company,” adds Hesje, who is also Brian’s nephew.

“We’re proud to carry on Brian’s legacy of business and community leadership.”