NPGA names Distinguished Service Award winner

The National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) named David Lugar of AmeriGas, who died last year at age 59, as the recipient of its 2016 Distinguished Service Award. Roland Penta of Phelps Sungas made the announcement during NPGA’s annual board of directors meeting in Washington, D.C.

From left, Kole Lugar, Lajan Lugar and Roland Penta. Photo by Brian Richesson

Lugar, AmeriGas’ former vice president of supply and logistics, was active over the years in NPGA and with the Propane Education & Research Council. He also chaired both organizations during his career.

“He would probably be the most surprised of anyone that he received this,” said Lajan Lugar, David’s wife, upon accepting the award with their son, Kole Lugar. “He was one of the most humble people I know. What you saw is what you got with David all the time.”

NPGA also announced the formation of the AmeriGas David Lugar Memorial Scholarship.

Also at the annual meeting, a number of awards and chairman citations were given. Here’s a rundown.

■ Randy Warner, vice president of safety at Ferrellgas, received NPGA’s Safety Award.

■ Naomi Cordill won the new National Propane Gas Foundation Scholarship Fund Outstanding Service Award.

■ Stuart Weidie, NPGA’s outgoing chairman, handed out citations to David Auxier (Bulk Truck & Transport Service) for his work in industry efforts to extend the bobtail requalification period; Bob Nicholson (Eastern Propane Corp.), Jim Renaldo (Renaldo Sales & Service) and Penta for their roles in establishing a propane exhibit at the National Museum of Industrial History in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania; and Rosie Buschur (McMahan’s Bottle Gas) and Teri Ory (Family Propane) for their work with the scholarship fund.