For decades, Joe Eberz spread smiles and helped spur the success of suppliers and distributors in the promotional products industry.

Promo pros will remember him in that positive light following his passing at age 67. Eberz, the owner of multi-line rep firm Joe Eberz & Associates, died Feb. 19 following a battle with cancer.

Joe Eberz, Joe Eberz & Associates

“Anyone who met Joe will never forget Joe,” Kara Keister, owner of Ohio-headquartered distributorship Social Good Promotions, told ASI Media in an emailed statement. “His charming personality and unmatchable wit were one of a kind. Always showing up in full force with a smile, a hug, and definitely a joke, Joe was a great example of supplier and distributor collaboration and a great example of how multi-line reps create relationships.”

Eberz worked in the promotional products business for 37 years. In addition to his multi-line work, he engaged in volunteer activities within the industry. This included being the former president of the Ohio Promotional Professionals Association. Hewas also a member of the Michigan Promotional Professionals Association and the Tri-State Promotional Professionals Association.

Eberz was far from all work, though. The lifelong resident of Akron, OH, was a lover of life who enjoyed hunting, boating, traveling, his cars and going to his cabin. He was known for his quick wit, jokes, storytelling and what an obituary described as a top-notch T-shirt collection.

Above all, family and friends were at the center of his heart.

“He loved spending every second he could with his family and friends,” an obituary read. “Joe was the life of the party, always bringing a smile and a laugh to those around him. He brought people together in a way that no one else could and will be deeply missed.”

Eberz is survived by his daughters, Jackie and Jennie Eberz; grandson, Robert Eberz; granddaughter, Jessica Shepherd; and brother, George Eberz. His parents and two siblings, a brother and sister, preceded him in death.

Family and friends will be received Sunday, March 3, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. ET at Hopkins Lawver Funeral Home, 547 Canton Rd., Akron, OH 44312. A memorial service will begin at 3:00 p.m.

Memorial trees or flowers can be purchased.