LIMA, Ohio–Gerald O’Connor, founder and president emeritus of Range Kleen Mfg., passed away Dec. 11 in his home in Ocala, Fla. He was 85 years old.
O’Connor founded the company in 1971 here, taking his range parts start up to the retail aftermarket to build a leading brand of range accessories sold to retailers nationwide. The company now also offers cookware, bakeware, and other kitchen and cleaning products. O’Connor retired from the business in 2003.
“My dad’s motto was always “Take care of the customer” and we will continue that motto in his memory as we go forward without him,” said O’Connor’s son Patrick, who is now the president and owner of Range Kleen.
Born here and raised in Cleveland, O’Connor was a WWII veteran, serving in the U.S. Navy. He is survived by his wife, Pauline, Patrick, three daughters and five grandchildren.