Our History

Kent Oil Company was originally founded in 1936 by Walter and Mildred Kent. Volume was smaller at this time and hand-delivered by carrying the fuel to each house. As a result, friendly relationships were common with most customers.

In the 1950's, Walter's oldest son, Jerry, joined the operation to help out with growing business demands. Jerry married in 1953 and brought his wife, Anne, into the business.

After Walter's retirement, Jerry and Anne continued as Amoco agents until jobberships were offered in 1976. In 1976, Jerry and Anne purchased the jobbership from Amoco and became independent Amoco distributors. Soon after, the current fuel distribution plant and office were constructed.

In 1981, Jerry and Anne's son, John, joined the Company as a transport driver and took over transportation of liquid petroleum. In 1988, Jerry and Anne's son-in-law, Jeff Hynes, joined the business and worked in all areas of the operation.

As the demand for propane became apparent, a new propane distribution and storage facility was added in 1992. This alternative product gave an opportunity to maintain customer base when movement toward propane energy was evident. Kent Oil & Propane continued to grow and distribute products within a four-county area.

In 1996, Jerry and Anne sold the business to John Kent and Jeff Hynes and retired a few months later. Jeff and John continued to look at ways to better serve customers. Expanding products and services related to the fuel industry became a priority.

In June of 1999, Frost Heating & Cooling was acquired. A new building was soon built at the Kent Oil & Propane location to provide office and HVAC equipment storage. Frost Heating & Cooling continues to provide service and new installations to a four-county, Mid-Michigan area.

In the summer of 2010 the sudden and unexpected death of John Kent resulted in the transition of ownership of Kent Oil & Propane and Frost Heating & Cooling to Jeff Hynes in 2011. John is deeply missed by all.

We know John would be proud that both companies have transitioned smoothly and continue to provide quality products and service with a staff possessing over 150 years of combined experience.