ERGO Founder Stephen Hines Passes

JULY 9, 2024

ERGO Founder Stephen Hines Passes

A Look Back on His Life

Moriarty, NM - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Stephen C. Hines, a brilliant inventor, beloved employer, and founder of ERGO. Steve departed from this world on June 30th in New Mexico.

He had a mind full of ideas and a passion for gunsmithing from an early age. He started his life’s journey in Canyon, Texas, eventually moving to New Mexico in 1991. Here he would form Falcon Industries (DBA ERGO) and set his mind to design the world’s best AR grip. Steve’s 26 patents stand as a testament to his creativity, passion, and ingenuity, showcasing his contributions to the world of invention.

Steve leaves behind a legacy of passion that will be cherished by our family-run business for generations to come.

A Look Back at Life

In 1973, Steve embarked on his entrepreneurial journey by opening his own Auto Parts store called Steve’s Auto Parts in Canyon, Texas.

He continued his education and in 1979 Steve received his Bachelor of Science in Industrial Arts from West TX State University. During his schooling he held an internship at Texas Instruments and, after graduation, worked for several auto parts companies including McQuay Norris, Champion, and TRW.

By 1987, Steve’s creativity began to push him towards his entrepreneurship. He began by operating Meier Works, where he was a gunsmith to the local community and produced a line of European gun parts.

Between 1990 and 1998, he went from operating a small gun shop in Canyon Texas to founding Falcon Industries - a company named after his first car, a 1960 Falcon.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Steve was deeply involved in his family and community, and holds a special place in the hearts of those he worked with. He was elected for two terms on the Canyon City Commission and would mentor the neighborhood boys and family members in his workshop during the first years of Falcon Industries.

He will be dearly missed by his loving family, including his daughter Mira O'Connell who has held the position of CEO of ERGO since 2019. Mira, who also served as the company's bookkeeper at the inception of Falcon Industries, shared a special bond with her father through their shared passions. Mira’s son, Xavier O’Connell, represents the next generation and has been following in his grandfather’s footsteps at ERGO since 2020.

Steve was a man of integrity, vision, and unwavering dedication. His presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His impact on the lives of those around him will forever be remembered with great fondness and gratitude.

Funeral Service

A funeral service to honor and celebrate his remarkable life will be held at the First Methodist Church Canyon Campus, 1818 4th Avenue, Canyon, TX, USA on July 12th, 2024, at 10:00 AM. Flowers and cards for the service can be sent to Harris-Hanlon Mortuary at 807 Central Ave, Moriarty, NM 87035.

Donations can be made on Steve’s behalf to the Dementia Society of America (https://www.dementiasociety.org/donate)

May his legacy continue to inspire future generations to dream, create, and innovate in his honor.

ERGO Industries, a Subdivision of ERGO Group, LLC.

ERGO is Proudly Made in the USA

Falcon Industries dba ERGO Grip remains family-owned and striving for innovation in developing and manufacturing mission-focused weapons and advanced technology accessories for civilian, law enforcement and government use worldwide.

We are based out of a 16,000 square foot facility in Moriarty, New Mexico. ERGO develops and manufactures mission-focused weapons and advanced technology accessories for civilian, law enforcement and government use worldwide.

The company, which began with innovations such as the ERGO® Grip and the F93 Pro Stock®, has expanded to precision engineered weapon accessories and continues to develop their capabilities for to enhance defense systems. What began as an enthusiast’s hobby, providing fellow shooters with custom parts and accessories, has grown into a vibrant weapons and advanced technology accessories development operation.

The team at ERGO has grown their business through a combination of precision manufacturing and exemplary customer service.

All ERGO products are manufactured and assembled in the USA to the highest standards and the tightest possible tolerances. Expanding beyond industry standards, every shipment of ERGO products that goes out to our doors is backed by a comprehensive satisfaction guarantee.

Visit us at ergogrips.net