Peter J. Liegl obituary and death: Trailblazer of the RV Industry and Beloved Community Leader, Peter J. Liegl, Passes Away at 81 in Elkhart, Indiana, Leaving Behind a Legacy of Innovation, Resilience, and Generosity”
Peter J. Liegl obituary and death: Trailblazer of the RV Industry and Beloved Community Leader, Peter J. Liegl, Passes Away at 81 in Elkhart, Indiana, Leaving Behind a Legacy of Innovation, Resilience, and Generosity”
The recreational vehicle (RV) industry is mourning the loss of a titan, Peter J. Liegl, founder of Forest River, Inc., who passed away on November 18, 2024, at the age of 81 in Elkhart, Indiana. Pete Liegl, as he was fondly known, revolutionized the RV manufacturing industry and touched countless lives through his business acumen, philanthropic efforts, and dedication to his community. Survived by his wife, Sharon; daughter, Lisa L. Rees; son-in-law, Logan Rees; and grandchildren, Adrienne and Ryan, Pete’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of many.
The Early Years: Building a Foundation for Success
Born in Indiana, Pete grew up with a natural curiosity and a sharp business sense. His journey to becoming an industry pioneer was shaped by his early experiences in sales and management roles within the RV sector. These roles gave him an in-depth understanding of the intricacies of production, customer needs, and operational efficiency.
Pete first made his mark as the president of Midas Motorhomes, where he demonstrated his knack for leadership and product innovation. Later, he joined Shasta, a division of Coachmen Industries, where he further honed his skills. During these formative years, Pete earned a reputation for pushing boundaries and focusing on delivering quality products.
However, his road to success was not without challenges. In the 1980s, Pete co-founded Cobra Industries, his first venture into RV manufacturing. Despite its early success, the company faced difficulties after going public. Pete was abruptly removed from leadership, a turning point that could have ended many careers. Instead, it fueled his resolve.
The Birth of Forest River, Inc.: A Vision Realized
Undeterred, Pete began crafting RV units in a small barn. With limited resources but unlimited determination, his early products were sold under a streetlamp in Louisville, Kentucky. These humble beginnings laid the groundwork for what would become Forest River, Inc., a company that redefined the RV industry.
In 1996, Pete founded Forest River, Inc. in Elkhart, Indiana, with a bold mission: to design and manufacture RVs that catered to the diverse needs of outdoor enthusiasts while maintaining affordability and quality. Starting with a modest team, Forest River quickly grew under Pete’s leadership, expanding its portfolio to include:
- Recreational Vehicles (RVs)
- Cargo Trailers
- Buses
- Pontoon Boats
Pete’s unwavering focus on delivering the “best product at the best price” was a cornerstone of Forest River’s philosophy. This approach not only resonated with consumers but also positioned Forest River as a dominant force in the RV industry.
Innovation and Growth: A Legacy of Leadership
Under Pete’s guidance, Forest River became one of North America’s largest RV manufacturers. His commitment to innovation was evident in every aspect of the business, from cutting-edge designs to streamlined manufacturing processes. By acquiring smaller companies and integrating their strengths, Pete expanded Forest River’s reach and capabilities.
One of the pivotal moments in Pete’s career came in 2005, when he sold Forest River to Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway. Despite the sale, Pete continued to lead the company, ensuring its core values remained intact. His hands-on approach and tireless work ethic—often working seven days a week—solidified Forest River’s reputation as a customer-focused organization.
Even as Forest River grew to employ over 14,000 people across 100+ facilities, Pete remained accessible to his team, fostering a culture of collaboration and accountability. His famous mantra, “We don’t take ourselves too seriously, but we’re very serious about what we do,” became a guiding principle for the company.
A Commitment to Community and Philanthropy
Pete’s contributions extended far beyond the RV industry. A proud resident of Elkhart, he was deeply committed to supporting his community. Though he shied away from public recognition, Pete quietly donated to initiatives in education, healthcare, conservation, and local community projects. His generosity reflected his belief in giving back to the place that had given him so much.
Among his notable contributions were:
- Funding scholarships for local students.
- Supporting healthcare facilities in Elkhart.
- Investing in conservation efforts to preserve Indiana’s natural beauty.
Pete’s humility and commitment to service earned him admiration from all who knew him. He often credited his success to his team and his faith, drawing inspiration from his namesake, the Apostle Peter.
Personal Reflections: The Man Behind the Success
Beyond his professional achievements, Pete was known for his warmth, humor, and steadfast determination. To his family, he was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. To his colleagues and friends, he was a mentor and confidant, always ready with a hearty laugh and a word of encouragement.
Pete’s resilience in the face of adversity inspired countless individuals. Whether navigating business challenges or crafting innovative solutions, he exemplified the power of perseverance and vision.
Forest River Today: Continuing the Legacy
Today, Forest River, Inc. stands as a testament to Pete’s vision and leadership. As a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, the company remains committed to upholding Pete’s legacy of quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. With over 28 years of industry leadership, Forest River continues to thrive, serving millions of customers across North America.
In 2024, Pete announced a succession plan, ensuring a seamless transition for the company he built. His influence will undoubtedly guide Forest River’s future endeavors.
A Lasting Legacy
Pete Liegl’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy endures. He transformed the RV industry, inspired a generation of entrepreneurs, and left an indelible mark on his community. As the industry mourns his loss, his story serves as a reminder of the profound impact one individual can have through hard work, innovation, and kindness.
Pete Liegl will be remembered not only as a pioneer of the RV industry but also as a man of character, generosity, and vision. His contributions have made the world a better place, and his memory will continue to inspire for generations to come.
Rest in peace, Pete. Your journey was extraordinary, and your legacy will forever be cherished.
