MOBILE, AL – With a heavy heart, Aaron Oil Company, Inc. announces that Daniel A. Cowart, its founder and CEO, passed away on December 13, 2016, after a brief illness. Dan is survived by his wife, Lauren, father, Bob, son, Zack, brothers, sisters, and a large extended family. His passion for recycling, reclamation and petroleum production led Dan to grow Aaron Oil Company from a one-truck operation in 1981 to being listed for six consecutive years as one of the fastest growing companies in the country by Inc. 5000. In 2014, Dan founded International Hydrocarbon Services, LLC as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Aaron Oil Company. He also founded International Used Oil Research Institute in 1995, which is based in Washington, D.C. Dan was also past president of the National Oil Recycler’s Association and served on its Board of Directors.

Dan celebrated his entrepreneurial spirit. At the same time, Dan was a man of great faith. Earlier this year, Aaron Oil Company, Inc. celebrated its 35^thAnniversary. When asked, what contributed most to Aaron Oil’s 35 years of success, Dan did not hesitate in his response: “Our faith in God; Biblical principles, Godly mentors who have provided us great wisdom over the years; prayerful decisions; our team of employees that is committed to a vision, mission and long-term strategic plan that we all believe in; and last, but not least, our customers who choose to do business with us over others in the marketplace.”

Dan’s enthusiasm was contagious. He was known for his positive outlook as well as for his joy and exuberance. Because of his pioneer spirit and courage, Dan was an avid learner and explorer. He believed that the people perish where there is a lack of vision, and so he never quit looking ahead for the Company and our nation. Dan quietly gave of his time, resources and energy to many causes and many individuals. Dan was an accomplished musician, and he founded Fellowship Ministries in 1980 which grew to include other ministries under its umbrella such as Audio Outreach International and The Freedom and Family Tour. His passion was saving souls by taking inspirational country music to radio, military, and NASCAR events.

Dan’s leadership will be missed, but more than that his friendship, wisdom and relentless sense of humor will leave a hole in all our lives. Being the visionary he was, Dan put a succession plan in place to facilitate the continued growth and success of Aaron Oil Company and International Hydrocarbon Services for many years to come. The management and employees are dedicated to continuing Dan’s legacy.

Thank you for your thoughts and prayers for Dan’s family in this sad time.