EFCO co-founder dies

William Terry Fuldner, co-founder of Monett-based manufacturer firm EFCO Corp., died Sept. 8 after a brief illness. He was 82.

Fuldner led EFCO as president and CEO until he became chairman of the board. His son, Chris, took on the role of CEO until he retired in 2007 and the company was acquired by Pella Corp., according to an EFCO news release.

"Dad was an industry pioneer who made a major difference in the industry, building EFCO’s business in the process," Chris Fuldner said in the release. "He was a character who loved life and will truly be missed by his friends and business associates.”

George Eberle and Fuldner founded the company as EFCO Products Co. in 1952, and it was incorporated as EFCO Corp. in 1953, according to the Missouri Secretary of State Web site.

Fuldner, among other accomplishments, headed EFCO's longtime leadership in the American Architectural Manufacturers Association.

“Terry Fuldner was a real innovator known for his longtime leadership in the industry as he guided EFCO through its tremendous growth from a startup to an influential industry leader,” EFCO President and Chief Operating Officer Mike Farquhar said in the release.

The Bennett-Wormington Funeral Home, 216 Second St. in Monett, will handle the funeral arrangments. Services are pending.[[In-content Ad]]