James “Bud” Healy died of cancer July 27 at his home in Columbus, Ohio.

James “Bud” Healy died of cancer July 27 at his home in Columbus, Ohio. Healy was named dean of education for the Heating, Airconditioning & Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI) in 2004; before that, he was director of education for 38 years with HARDI’s predecessor group, the Northamerican Heating, Refrigeration and Airconditioning Wholesalers Association.

“Bud was a kind and gentle man whose warmth and friendly spirit was valued by HARDI members, co-workers and industry friends,” said Don Frendberg, HARDI executive vice president and long-time friend and colleague of Healy’s.

Healy held a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Illinois. He was a prolific writer and a resource for HVACR engineering technology throughout the association and the industry.

He led the development and growth of education in the association through the Home Study Institute and the Counterperson Certification Program, and authored numerous technical courses and texts. Healy was named HARDI Senior Fellow this past June by the group’s board of directors.

Healy is survived by his wife of 47 years, Margie, and children Mary, Eileen, Michael and Dennis, as well as their families.

Donations may be made to the Kidney Foundation of Ohio, 1373 Grandview Ave., Columbus, OH 43212, or to St. Agatha Catholic Church.

The HARDI staff was planning a retirement party for Healy in August and wanted to present him with a memory book of letters from friends and associates. HARDI would still like to prepare the memory book and present it to his family. If you would like to participate, send your letters by Aug. 15, 2009, to HARDI, 3455 Mill Run Dr., Suite 820, Columbus, OH 43026-7578.