Robert Martin Calfee III, 86, founder of Copper State Bolt & Nut Co., died July 23, 2024.

He founded Copper State in 1972 and grew the company to more than 600 employees at 30 facilities serving 16,000 customers.

"Martin’s legacy is one of hard work, community engagement, and a commitment to complete everything he started," his family wrote.

"He was an avid collector of Harley Davidson t-shirts, loose change, and newspaper rubber bands. His hobbies included washing cars and mowing the grass with a cigar and Black Cherry White Claws. He loved day-old coffee, raw hamburger meat, and sunbathing slathered in Baby Oil."

Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Margaret Mary Tiffany (Monnie) for 60 years; daughters Elizabeth Chatfield Licosati (David), Virginia Tiffany Linsalata (Mark), Sarah Jane Shannon (John), Robin Martin LeFevre (Greg), Cinco Calfee Sorrow (Chris); and nine grandchildren.

The family suggests memorial donations to St. Francis Xavier Elementary School in Phoenix, AZ.

Messages to the family may be sent c/o Copper State Nut & Bolt, 3602 N 35th Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85017-4408. Email: websales@CopperState.com