American Standard Manufacturing founder: A cylinder exchange innovator

Coleman W. Vickary, the founder of American Standard Manufacturing, died March 2 at the age of 79.

Vickary was known for his innovation and revolutionary ideas centered around the propane cylinder exchange industry. The idea of propane cylinder exchange came to light on a Sunday afternoon around a barbecue grill when Vickary ran out of propane, and the fill station was closed, the family recalls.

Vickary began promoting the concept of cylinder exchange as the manager of Hartford Manufacturing in Cobleskill, New York. He then founded American Standard Manufacturing, which has been operating and supporting the industry as a key supplier from Central Bridge, New York, for over 35 years. The company specializes in equipment designs for the storage and handling of propane, welding and industrial gas cylinders.

His innovative design of the “Little Giant” was a back-saving device for inverting tanks and evacuating gas. He was a participant in the startup of the National Propane Gas Association’s Cylinder Exchange Council.

The family says his high standards and pursuits of excellence will continue to influence the propane industry for years to come.

Vickary is survived by his wife, Connie, of 54 years and his children, Regina Haig and Dominic Vickary, who continue to operate American Standard Manufacturing.

Sentiments from former and current long-term employees:

“They say a true mentor is a ‘guiding light,’ and for me, that has always been Cole Vickary, who also happens to be my father-in-law. I’ll never forget when I started at American Standard 33 years ago. I was a 19-year-old kid who was just out of high school and unemployed. Cole was not going to have his daughter dating a slug, so he sent me to Albany to pick up a piece of steel, and as they say, the rest is history. It was in that moment I realized mentorship wasn’t just about advice – it was about showing up. Thank you for your patience, your wisdom and for being the compass that guided me through my most uncertain times. I am a better person because I knew and loved you. I will forever carry on your legacy through my dedication to American Standard and you as my guiding light.” – Aaron Haig

“When I first joined American Standard Manufacturing, I was looking for a job. Unknowingly, I stepped into a career, mentored by Cole Vickary, who was an incredible business leader and role model. He trusted me with responsibilities that built my confidence and gave me opportunity to learn and grow. On one occasion, I was working on an MIG welding machine, and Cole said, ‘Rob, if you can’t fix it and forget how it goes back together, there is always someone out there that can fix it and put it back together. So, tear into it and learn how it works.’ I did exactly that. Fixed it! Twenty-eight years into my career, and I am still following that motto; I reflect on that moment often. That encouragement forged itself within me and because of it, I continue to test and broaden my capabilities every time there is a project to tackle. Thankfully, he took a chance on a young graduate and persuaded my confidence to be successful. I witnessed how much importance Cole gave to his family; his love for them, undeniable. I am grateful to have had the privilege to witness his passion and success in transforming his vision into legacy. Over the years, he graced us with encouragement, wisdom and guidance, creating a community we are all proud to be a part of. We will honor his memory by continuing to uphold his legacy.” – Rob Crewell

“I was a bookkeeper for Cole Vickary at American Standard Manufacturing for 24 years. They were some of the best years of my working career. Cole was an awesome boss, and he made me feel like part of the family, not just an employee. He did a lot for his employees year-round. He was an extraordinary boss, and he took care of all his employees. He will be greatly missed.” – Sharon Miller

“I started my journey with Coleman Vickary at the inception of American Standard Manufacturing. He fostered a family-oriented environment, which allowed me the flexibility I needed while raising my young children. At the same time, he took me under his wing, teaching me the ins and outs of managing and running a business. When I felt the urge to pursue a career change, both he and Connie supported and encouraged me to follow my path. We remained close friends and kept in touch until the end. Coleman was an extraordinary entrepreneur, and I gained so much insight from him throughout our time together.” – Ethel Weimer

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