Former Fountain Tire CEO Brian Hesje Has Died

Dec. 15, 2021

Brian Hesje, the former CEO of Fountain Tire and chairman of the company's board, died Dec. 5. He was 75.

Hesje joined the company in 1984 and ascended the ranks as vice president and president. He served as CEO from 1992 to 2005 and then took on the role as chairman of the board of directors from 2005 to 2014. His biggest role — and according to Fountain Tire, "a career highlight" — was his role in the deal which made Goodyear Canada a minor owner in the company in 1988.

“Brian was a mentor and role model for the automotive industry in Canada,” says Fountain Tire 's current CEO Brent Hesje, who is Brian Hesje's nephew. “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.”

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.

In the Alberta business community, Hesje served on several public and private boards throughout his career. He was also an author of two books: "26 Thoughts on Leadership" and "Thoughts on Thinking." Hesje was 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,” says Brent Hesje. “We’re proud to carry on Brian’s legacy of business and community leadership.”

Hesje's obituary is available here.

Fountain Tire says it has contributed to the Rick Hansen Foundation in Hesje's honor.