About Us
The Early Years: The Beginning of a Legacy
G. Burns traces its roots back to the late 1970s when Jack Hardesty, an automotive leader in Allen County, Ohio, laid the foundation for the company. Known for his success in the automotive industry, Jack owned multiple dealerships and related businesses in the region. In 1976, he expanded into the funeral home supply sector by establishing The Barron Corporation, the predecessor of today's G. Burns. The Barron Corporation quickly became known for its parts sales of hearse products and accessories, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Jack's diverse business portfolio.
The Legacy of Miller-Meteor
In 1979, when the renowned coachbuilder Miller-Meteor ceased operations, The Barron Corporation acquired the trade name, preserving its distinguished heritage. Mr. Hardesty continued the Miller-Meteor legacy for several years, eventually selling the company but maintaining his dedication to supplying components for hearses and assisting funeral home directors in constructing their own vehicles.
A New Era with Don McClintock
In the late 1990s, Don McClintock, a retired educator, took the helm of the company. Upon acquisition, he rebranded the business as G. Burns. Mr. McClintock, much like his predecessor, made significant contributions, leaving an indelible mark on the company.
In 1999, Don introduced a truly innovative and one-of-a-kind landau bar solution for funeral home vehicles. Unlike anything else on the market, this unique product became a standout addition to the G. Burns family. In the nearly 25 years since its creation, it has been sold across North America with nearly 1,800 sales to date, continuing to set the standard in the industry.
Facing Adversity with Grace
In the mid-2010s, Don McClintock was diagnosed with cancer. To prioritize his health and family, he decided to sell the business. Don's legacy endures as a kind-hearted individual who touched many lives during his time. We remember Don for being a friendly person who cared for so many people during his lifetime. Read more.
A New Generation of Leadership
In late 2019, Don McClintock entrusted the legacy of G. Burns to his friend and long-time landau bar supplier, Mike Bales. Mike's journey into the business world began with two distinct passions: sheet metal manufacturing and stock car racing. These interests converged at his sheet metal fabrication shop, H.B. Products, where he developed the landau bars that would become a hallmark of G. Burns.
The partnership between Don and Mike began through their professional collaboration and blossomed into a friendship founded on their shared enthusiasm for cars and entrepreneurship. When Mike and his wife Sheryl took over the business in 2019, they brought their unique vision and dedication to the company.
In mid-2024, Mike and Sheryl handed over the business to their son, Keith Bales. Keith has been instrumental in modernizing the company, launching a new e-commerce website, and updating the digital presence of G. Burns. Under Keith's leadership, the company continues to thrive, embracing new technologies while honoring its storied past.
Continued Dedication to Excellence
Today, G. Burns remains committed to supporting funeral home directors nationwide and globally. We take pride in our American-made landau bars and essential equipment for hearses and first call vans, continuing to uphold our tradition of quality and service.
Explore our wide selection of accessories to outfit your vehicle today in our product catalog. Have a question? Reach us by completing the form on our contact page. We look forward to hearing from you!