Pete Liegl death Founder of Forest River, Inc., Passes Away: A Legacy of Innovation and Generosity
It is with profound sadness that Forest River, Inc. announces the passing of its esteemed founder, Peter J. Liegl. A trailblazer in the RV industry and a proud son of Indiana, Pete leaves behind a legacy of innovation, generosity, and unwavering dedication to his craft.
_Early Life and Career_
Pete Liegl’s journey to becoming a legend in the recreational vehicle (RV) industry began modestly. Born with a keen business acumen and a relentless drive, he gained invaluable experience through sales and management roles in the RV sector. Early in his career, he served as president of Midas Motorhomes before moving on to Shasta, a division of Coachmen Industries.
_Founding of Forest River, Inc._
Undeterred by setbacks, Pete co-founded Cobra Industries, a venture that marked his first foray into building RVs. However, when the company went public, Pete was unceremoniously fired. Refusing to let this define his career, he turned a barn into his workshop and handcrafted his first RV units. These initial creations were sold outside under a streetlamp in Louisville, marking the humble yet momentous start of what would later become Forest River, Inc.
_Legacy and Impact_
In 1996, Pete established Forest River, Inc. in Elkhart, Indiana, with a bold vision: to create a company that could meet the diverse needs of outdoor enthusiasts and bring the beauty of nature to people across America. Forest River quickly expanded, offering not only RVs but also buses, cargo trailers, and marine products. Pete’s unwavering commitment to providing “the best product at the best price” propelled the company to unprecedented success. Under his leadership, Forest River grew to become one of North America’s largest RV manufacturers.
_Philanthropy and Community Involvement_
Pete’s influence extended far beyond the RV industry. He was deeply rooted in the Elkhart community, where he quietly made generous philanthropic contributions. His support spanned education, healthcare, conservation, and local community initiatives, reflecting his commitment to giving back to the place he called home.
_Remembrance_
Pete will be remembered not just as a visionary leader but as a man of character, humor, and heart. His booming laugh, twinkling eyes, and steadfast determination left an indelible mark on everyone he met. Founded by Pete Liegl in 1996, Forest River, Inc. has grown to become North America’s largest manufacturer of recreational vehicles, cargo trailers, pontoon boats, and commercial vehicles.
Headquartered in Elkhart, Indiana, the company employs over 14,000 people across more than 100 facilities. As a Berkshire Hathaway company, Forest River continues to honor Pete’s legacy through a steadfast commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
