Tributes

Andy Hogan, FEI Group

Reflecting on the formation of the group, Andy Hogan, co-founder and COO of FEI Group, said, “Manufacturers were growing in size and consolidating, leaving the flooring contractors to unite and carve their own path. It was that movement—the consolidation of the supply community—that lit the fire urging flooring contractors to begin communicating with one another. We are proud to say, mission accomplished.”

“On a personal note, Dave was and continues to be one of the most respected people in the industry. He set the bar high. Our history goes back nearly 30 years. We’ve been together since the very beginning. He was a brother to me, a best friend. He epitomized what it meant to be the best version of yourself, every day. He encouraged us to live our lives with integrity, honesty, humility and love … just as he did. To lose him at only 53 years is still something we’re processing, but we’re committed to continuing his legacy of pragmatic positivity.”

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To say the news came as a shock would be a greater understatement than to say COVID-19 has been an annoyance. The email I received was short and to the point. It came from the Floor Covering Industry Foundation. “I wanted to share with you that our board member and friend, Dave Gheesling, passed away yesterday. Dave, as a new board member, quickly took to sharing the FCIF mission with his peers—having his donation tripled by matching gifts last year…”