Remembering Larry Stanley

Larry Stanley, founder of Empire Bolt & Screw Inc., headquartered in Spokane, Washington, died on August 7 at the age of 97. He grew up in Oakesdale, Washington, a small farming community about 45 miles south of Spokane, during the Great Depression and credits his upbringing there for shaping his work ethic. He grew up very poor, where allowances did not exist in his family; at an early age, he learned you have to work hard to move yourself forward.

His career in the hardware industry started with working in general hardware stores, but ultimately, he had a dream to start his own business. In 1972, that dream became a reality when he mortgaged everything and founded Empire Bolt & Screw. Stanley, along with his wife and business partner Beverley, built the wholesale hardware startup into a thriving enterprise that remains family-owned and continually growing today under the ownership of his son Ron.

Stanley was a recognized leader in the industrial hardware industry and was chosen to be the charter president of the Western Association of Fastener Distributors in 1982-1983 (now known as Pac-West Fastener Association). He also served on the National Fastener Distributor Association (1981-1984) and was humbled to be elected to the National Industrial Fastener Show Hall of Fame in 1991.

Outside of the fastener industry, Stanley was active in many civic causes—from Boy Scouts of America to Junior Achievement. He was chosen to be the chairman of the Spokane Area Chamber of Commerce as well as the chair of the statewide chamber of commerce, Association of Washington Business.

A story on Larry Stanley would not be complete without also sharing how music played such an important role in his life. Members of NFDA or WAFD might remember how accomplished he was on his clarinet when the association band performed at a conference. Indeed, playing professionally helped sustain him in the early days as he worked regular jobs during the day and entertained audiences at night with his jazz bands.

A celebration of his life will occur in the early fall. In lieu of flowers, gifts to any of the following organizations are suggested:
• Salvation Army of Spokane
• Union Gospel Mission of Spokane
• The Innovia Community Foundation -Oakesdale Community Endowment Fund