It is with profound sadness that Forest River, Inc. announces the passing of its founder, Peter J. Liegl. A visionary leader who reshaped the RV industry, Pete was also one of Indiana’s most dedicated citizens and generous philanthropists. He is survived by his wife, Sharon; daughter Lisa L. Rees; son-in-law Logan Rees; grandchildren Adrienne (6) and Ryan (3); and brother-in-law Gary Chamberlin.
Pete Liegl’s legacy is most closely associated with founding Forest River, Inc. and selling the company to Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway in 2005. However, his journey to industry legend began with humble roots. Through various sales and management roles, Pete gained invaluable experience in production, operations, and customer service. His career path led him to serve as president of Midas Motorhomes and later, a position at Shasta, a Coachmen-owned company. Eventually, he struck out on his own, co-founding Cobra Industries. After Cobra went public and Pete was ousted, he turned adversity into opportunity, handcrafting his first RV in a barn. His commitment and determination saw him bring the first units to Louisville, where he sold them under a streetlamp—a symbolic beginning for the company that would grow to become known as “Where the Forest Meets the River.”
In 1996, Pete founded Forest River in Elkhart, Indiana, with a clear vision: to make nature accessible to as many Americans as possible. His goal was to create a company that could cater to a wide array of consumer needs, and he succeeded. Under his leadership, Forest River expanded its product range to include RVs, buses, cargo trailers, and marine products. Pete’s unwavering commitment to providing the best products at the best prices, combined with strategic acquisitions and constant innovation, allowed Forest River to become one of the largest RV manufacturers in North America.
Pete’s management philosophy was rooted in empowering his employees, fostering a culture of accountability, and always keeping the consumer’s needs at the forefront. “We don’t take ourselves too seriously,” he often said, “But we’re very serious about what we do.”
Even in 2024, while preparing for succession, Pete continued to lead Forest River with passion and dedication. Despite stepping back from day-to-day operations, he remained deeply involved, overseeing numerous internal innovations and investments that will ensure the company’s growth and success for years to come.
For those who knew him well, Pete’s life was deeply influenced by his namesake, the Apostle Peter. The Apostle’s story of transformation inspired Pete’s own journey, which became a beacon of redemption, leadership, and steadfast commitment to his values.
Proud of his Elkhart roots, Pete was a private philanthropist, supporting causes related to education, healthcare, conservation, and local communities. But it is his unshakable character, infectious laugh, and twinkle in his eye that will leave the most lasting impression on those who had the privilege of knowing him.
About Forest River, Inc.
Founded in 1996 by Pete Liegl, Forest River, Inc. has evolved into North America’s largest manufacturer of recreational vehicles, cargo trailers, pontoon boats, and commercial vehicles including buses, vans, and trucks. Its portfolio includes market share leaders in every category, and it is the country’s leading manufacturer of buses and vans for both the private and public sectors. Based in Elkhart, Indiana, Forest River employs 14,000+ employees in 100+ facilities in more than a half dozen states. With a commitment to excellence and a focus on customer satisfaction, Forest River is proud to be a Berkshire Hathaway company.