Dead River Acquires Roby’s Propane Gas

Dead River Co. acquired Roby’s Propane Gas, a propane and distillates delivery business headquartered in West Wareham, Mass., Cetane Associates announced.

Roby’s was founded over 60 years ago by Waldo and Midge Roby, and has a longstanding history of providing residential and commercial customers with energy products and prompt, responsive service. As a major supplier to local cranberry growers, Roby’s Propane Gas has established itself in the South Coast and Cape Cod regions of Massachusetts.

Key employee/owners today include Wayne Rutledge, president; Waldo and Midge Roby’s son Wally Roby, operations manager; and Joyce Bacchiocchi, comptroller.

President Wayne Rutledge says, “We’re thrilled for our employees and customers that the Roby’s philosophy and practice of customer service will be carried on by Dead River Company. We built a reputable company and now know it will continue to flourish with Dead River.”

Dead River Company, founded in 1909 by Charles Hutchins, had its roots in the forest products industry. In 1936, Dead River Company entered the petroleum business and has since grown to be the largest full-service heating provider in northern New England. By operating locally- managed offices throughout Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts, it maintains deep roots in the communities that it serves. Casey Cramton, Dead River Company President and Chief Executive Officer, states, “We are honored that co-owners Wayne, Wally and Joyce selected Dead River Company to continue caring for Roby’s Propane Gas customers, employees and communities served.  Our aligned values will help ensure that their employees and customers feel right at home.”

Cetane Associates (www.Cetane.com), a provider of financial advisory services to business owners in home services industries, served as the sole arranger to Roby’s Propane Gas. The transaction was completed on November 14, 2023.