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 and Nancy McClintock

In late 1993, Don and Nancy McClintock acquired the hearse trim and accessories division of The Barron Corporation from their neighbors, Jack and Margaret Hardesty. This transition was not only an opportunity to carry forward the Hardestys’ legacy but also to keep the business rooted in the Lima, Ohio area and among friends. Under the McClintocks’ stewardship, the acquisition expanded the product line and played a pivotal role in the growth and success of G. Burns.

Don and Nancy made a lasting impact by introducing exceptional products tailored to hearses and funeral home vehicles.

They 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 over 45 years since its creation, our landau bars have been sold across North America and around the world with over 3,100 sales to date, continuing to set the standard in the industry.

Additionally, they developed casket slide strips as a cost-effective alternative to casket rollers, offering a reliable and efficient solution for casket loading. These contributions have cemented their legacy as pioneers in funeral vehicle accessories, with products that continue to lead the market today.

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.