As Brian “The Big Cheese” Sheehan steps into retirement after 46 years of building RCC from a two-person startup to a 70-employee powerhouse, we asked our team to share their memories and reflections on the man who made propane software – and life at RCC – anything but ordinary.
The Energy That Filled Every Room
Walk into any RCC gathering over the past four decades, and you’d know immediately if Brian was there. As Kathie Freitag puts it perfectly: “Energy – It’s evident when Brian is in the building. Between laughter, talking or movement, Brian’s energy is present and contagious.”
That signature laughter – the kind that could be heard three offices away – became the soundtrack of RCC. Jerod Herzog captures it beautifully: “I can hear his laugh right now. Very funny and upbeat, has the twinkle in his eye.” Brett Welsh adds that Brian is “always finding a way to make the room laugh or smile.”
A Different Kind of Leader
In an industry often characterized by traditional business approaches, Brian brought something revolutionary: genuine positivity and unwavering trust. “Brian is a truly positive person. No matter the situation, he can always find the good in others,” reflects Freddie Ridler.
Tom Neubauer, who’s known Brian for 40 years, emphasizes his character: “He is a very honest and moral friend and boss.” Jerod Herzog echoes this sentiment, calling him “an unusually virtuous, honest and trusting leader.”
The Innovator Who Never Stopped Dreaming
True to his entrepreneurial spirit, Brian was perpetually looking ahead. “Brian is always on the lookout for the next big idea – whether at work or in the communities he passionately supports!” notes Abby Thurston.
And sometimes those ideas led to memorable debates. Jerod recalls with a chuckle: “I’ll always remember Freddie and Brian arguing about Prep many years ago.” Mitch Hegna’s recollection brings humor to Brian’s business acumen: “First and foremost pie charts!, boisterous laughter, Lion’s club, commitment, and willingness to make a deal.”
The Heart Behind the Humor
Ben Carlson’s simple observation speaks volumes: “Smiling and laughing. Most every time I interact with Brian he is smiling and laughing.” But beneath the joy and jokes was a leader who brought something special to every interaction.
Tara Amberg perhaps says it best: “Energy. He brings an energy, like no one I’ve ever met, to every room he walks into.”
Making a Great Day
As Brian transitions from leading RCC to focusing on his Lion’s Club work and international speaking engagements (stress penguins in tow), his legacy lives on in every laugh shared in our offices, every innovative idea pursued, and every customer served with the dedication he modeled.
To borrow Brian’s own favorite sign-off: Make a great day!
Thank you, Brian, for 46 years of leadership, laughter, and showing us that with enough energy and commitment anything is possible.