John Sonnhalter, founder of the Sonnhalter, Cleveland, OH-based marketing communications firm known for its marketing to the professional trades in the construction, industrial and MRO markets, passed away on July 17. 
Sonnhalter, 77, founded Sonnhalter in 1976 with a vision that was ahead of its time: manufacturers needed a marketing partner that understood not only business-to-business communications, but also how to reach the skilled tradespeople who specify, recommend and install their products.
Across nearly four decades with the agency, he built one of the industry’s first firms dedicated exclusively to the construction, industrial and MRO markets. Beyond leading Sonnhalter, John became one of the industry’s respected voices on industrial marketing. In addition to authoring articles and counseling manufacturers on channel marketing strategies, he created Sonnhalter’s “Tradespeople Insights” blog, serving as its primary contributor until his retirement. 
 His passion for mentoring extended well beyond the agency. As a certified SCORE mentor, John helped entrepreneurs and nonprofit organizations develop strategic plans, strengthen their operations and achieve sustainable growth. He also helped launch and served on the board of nonprofit Good Knights of Lorain County, where his commitment to servant leadership reflected his lifelong desire to help others succeed.
Bill Wade, founder of Bill Wade & Associates, Huntersville, NC, passed away on July 6, 2026. Cindy Wade Brown, the company’s VP of Sales, said in a post on the National Electrical Manufacturers Representatives Association (NEMRA) website, “Bill devoted his life to the electrical industry and was respected for his integrity, leadership and unwavering commitment to the manufacturers, distributors and partners he proudly served. As the first employee of NSI Industries when it launched its U.S. operations, he helped lay the foundation for a company that would grow into an industry leader.
"He later founded Bill Wade & Associates, building a respected manufacturers’ representative agency known for trusted relationships and exceptional service. 
Just weeks before his passing, Bill was honored with a Hall of Fame/Lifetime Achievement Award at CES Connect — a fitting recognition of the lasting impact he made throughout his career.