– Lennox Legend John Norris Jr. Dies at
– Lennox Legend John Norris Jr. Dies.
John Windsor Norris Jr.: A Legend in the HVAC Industry
The HVAC industry is mourning the loss of a true legend with the passing of John Windsor Norris Jr. on January 21. Norris Jr., the grandson of Lennox founder D.W. Norris, left behind a remarkable legacy in the industry. His leadership at Lennox spanned several decades and contributed significantly to the company’s success.
A Titan of the HVAC Industry
Lennox CEO Alok Maskara expressed his admiration for Norris Jr., calling him a great leader whose vision, passion, and positive culture shaped Lennox and continue to influence its everyday operations. Maskara had the privilege of meeting Norris Jr. when he first joined Lennox, an encounter that left a profound impact on him. Under Norris Jr.’s guidance, Lennox underwent transformative changes, including its initial public offering and the establishment of commercial HVAC and refrigeration divisions.
A Family Legacy
John Windsor Norris Jr. was born into a family with a rich history in the HVAC industry. His grandfather, D.W. Norris, acquired the Lennox Furnace Co. from inventor Dave Lennox in 1904. Born in Marshalltown, Iowa in February 1936, Norris Jr. found his calling in the family business. He joined Lennox in 1960 after completing his education at Grinnell College and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
A Distinguished Career
Norris Jr.’s tenure at Lennox was marked by remarkable achievements and milestones. He played a pivotal role in the relocation of Lennox from Marshalltown to Richardson, Texas, a move that facilitated the company’s expansion. In 1999, Lennox became a publicly traded company, solidifying its position as a global industry leader. Norris Jr. also spearheaded the introduction of high-efficiency condensing heating products, showcasing his commitment to sustainability.
Contributions to the Industry
Recognized for his expertise and leadership, Norris Jr. served as a director on several boards, including AmerUs Group Co., the Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration Institute (ARI), and The Gas Appliance Manufacturers Association (GAMA). He was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the ARI in 2001. Through his retirement, Norris Jr. emphasized the importance of industry executives actively participating in organizations that work towards the betterment of the HVAC industry.
A Lasting Legacy
Following his retirement in 2006, Norris Jr.’s impact on the HVAC industry continued to be felt. One of his notable contributions was the creation of the Dave Lennox character, whose image adorns every Lennox unit packaging. The character became an iconic figure, connecting with dealers and customers alike.
A Passionate Philanthropist
Beyond his professional achievements, Norris Jr. was known for his love of the environment and philanthropic efforts. He served as the past chairman of The Nature Conservancy of Texas board of trustees. In his free time, Norris Jr. enjoyed fishing and ornithology, finding solace in nature.
Remembering John W. Norris Jr.
John W. Norris Jr. is survived by his wife, Terry, and their children Bo, Julie, and Jeff, as well as his five grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Bob Norris, and sister, Megan Norris, along with many nieces and nephews. Memorial services will be announced at a later date.
John Windsor Norris Jr.’s contributions to the HVAC industry and his lasting legacy at Lennox will always be remembered. His leadership and vision have shaped the industry, and his impact will continue to inspire future generations.
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1. Lennox Legend John Norris Jr. Dies at
2. Lennox Legend John Norris Jr. Dies at age.
