hm - Aug13 - cover.indd - National Hardwood Lumber Association

VETERAN BUSINESSMAN
CELEBRATES MILESTONE YEAR
Supplying lumber for boats used to be a major source of business,
but in the ’80s many builders converted to fiberglass as the chief
product in creating vessels. Also, the number of sawmills in New
England has decreased, and in recent years managers have been
seeking new sources from as far away as West Virginia. A recession
that started in 2008 also impacted the company.
“Business was down and we had to let people go,” said Keiver,
who said the number of employees went from 70 to about 37.
“That was one of the worst times I’ve ever had here, because we
value our employees.
“We’ve hired some back and we’re up to about 45. Building is
increasing, but we’re still cautious.”
Keiver, a native of Swampscott, went to North Carolina State
University to study forestry. He left to join the military and returned
to school after the service and graduated from the NHLA Inspector
Training School in 1955 with the 15th Class. The veteran manager
studied business at Northeastern University.
“Bob is a first-class guy and he runs a first-class business,” said Chris
Costello, a hardwood retailer who recently opened Timberline
Enterprises LLC. “When we moved to Newburyport, he and his
team were there to help us get settled and down to business. He’s a
real asset to our industry.”
Keiver, who has earned awards and lifetime achievement recognition
from several national associations relating to wood products and
lumber yards, indicated he thinks more about the business at hand
than the prospect of retiring.
“I enjoy people, and I have found satisfaction in working with those
in our industry,” Keiver said. “I have believed in providing a good
product and being fair to employees and to customers. Being fair –
that is important in any business.”
Shown above (left to right): Wendell Cramer and Bob Keiver, Patti
Keiver Heintzelman, and Newburyport Mayor Donna Holaday
with Bob Keiver.
WWW.NHLA.COM AUGUST 2013 HARDWOOD MATTERS 11