Who was Bob McNichols?
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- April 5, 2019
- 8 min
Robert L. "Bob" McNichols
April 5, 1922 – July 24, 1981
Service, Quality, and Performance – these are just a few of the values that McNICHOLS CO. associates strive to embody. In fact, we established many of our foundational values long before becoming the nation's leading supplier of "Hole Products." Our founder, Robert L. “Bob” McNichols, was a man of strong character. Throughout his life, he practiced many of the principles that influence and inspire us to this day.
Drive & Perseverance
Bob grew up in Cleveland, Ohio, with his younger brother Charles (“Chuck”) and parents Charles and Francis McNichols. As a kid, Bob's parents instilled in him the importance of discipline and good old-fashioned hard work. He applied that strong work ethic to his studies and maintained various jobs from a young age.
A defining part of Bob's youth was earning the position of drum major in his high school band. Bob's determination was fundamental in achieving this role. He spent his free time memorizing the band’s choreography, directing rehearsals, and leading the band in many memorable performances.
Between fulfilling this position, keeping up with chores at home, and maintaining whatever job he occupied at the time, Bob always put forth his best effort. Being a hard worker was ingrained in Bob's character. This spirit would serve him well throughout his life.
An Enterprising Spirit
If you've read The Hole Story, you're familiar with Bob's service as a member of the U.S. Army Air Corps, and the miraculous story of his survival. Throughout the war, Bob consistently demonstrated an eagerness to serve his country and compatriots. In addition to his bravery and service, Bob also learned important lessons from his experience in the Air Corps.
During World War II, the United States faced a crisis of scarcity. Soldiers rationed supplies and found different uses for whatever materials were available to them. This scarcity instilled resourcefulness in Bob. As a result, he learned in real time how to make something, out of what appeared to be nothing.
For example, during his time as a prisoner in a German concentration camp, Bob served as the camp's cook. He crafted numerous recipes featuring the well-known main ingredient - SPAM!
After the war ended, Bob began his career with the support of his wife Phyllis, his determination, a home telephone, and his faith in God. Bob used whatever assets he had to make progress in his field of work. From his previous life experiences, Bob made the conscious choice to see opportunity regardless of his circumstances.
A Pioneer for Progress
After his military service, Bob worked as a sales rep, and one of his product lines just happened to be Perforated Metal. While the manufacturing company had the machinery to produce plenty of Perforated Metal, Bob could somehow see more. He envisioned surpassing expectations. The goal was to exceed customers' accustomed levels of service and value.
Over time, Bob continued to work hard. He put himself in a position to buy the manufacturer’s Perforated Metal product line. He then began circulating it from his home, building personal relationships with customers in a way that was uncommon. With his tireless commitment to service, McNICHOLS CO. was born.
By the grace of God and by that good old-fashioned hard work, Bob would eventually grow out of his garage. He moved his operations into the Company's first Metals Service Center in his hometown of Cleveland, Ohio. Never seeming to rest, Bob continued to pursue advancement. He saved funds until he could acquire more material, expand his specialty metal product line, and acquire the latest technology and machinery to serve his customers.
In the early days of the business, Bob served in a multitude of roles from sales to delivery to accounting. Bob continued to trust his vision, alter the recipe, and therefore, the future of McNICHOLS.
When Cleveland's economy hit a slump in the 1970s, Bob was well ahead of that reality too. He foresaw the advantages a second location (and economy) could provide.
He expanded the company with an additional branch in Tampa, Florida. From there, a Hole Network of branches was born. Hustling and pursuing progress were not options for Bob. They were ingredients to his success and ability to leave a lasting legacy.
Bob's Lasting Legacy
While Bob may not have known what McNICHOLS would become, his experiences certainly prepared him to do great things. He also prepared his son Gene to lead and grow the family business after his passing in 1981.
Today, the third generation of the McNichols family helps lead nearly 400 associates in 19 different cities across America. With Bob's example as a regular reminder, we aim to match his drive, resourcefulness, and innovation. Most importantly, the unmatchable service he provided to his customers.
If we have earned the opportunity to serve you, we trust your experience reflects the values Bob made a promise to keep. We hope you enjoyed discovering a little more about Bob and the foundation our company was built upon. April 5, 2023, would have been his 101st birthday!
Please join us in honoring his memory and legacy. Learn more about McNICHOLS® Hole Products and Value-Added Services. Our associates are eager to share and, as always, are ready and Inspired to Serve® you!