Cooling America Since 1971
A Trusted Name in Refrigerant Gas for Over 50 Years
At Hungry Bear Refrigerant Gas, our history is defined by service, family, and grit. From our early days in Fort Worth to becoming a national supplier, we’ve never lost sight of what matters: doing the job right.
Our Story
A Legacy of American Values and Hard Work
Our journey began in 1971, when Joe Franke founded the company on timeless principles — honesty, commitment, and family-first service. That same spirit drives us today under the leadership of his son, Steve Franke.
We’ve grown from a modest regional supplier into a nationally trusted refrigerant distributor. But through all the changes, one thing remains constant: our dedication to reliable service, American-made quality, and community-centered values.
This business isn’t just about refrigerants. It’s about legacy — a reputation built over decades, by doing things the right way.
Joe Franke Graduates
Joe Franke, a standout scholar, earns his Chemical Engineering degree Magna Cum Laude from Purdue University. He begins his career with Union Carbide in their Fluorocarbon Division, laying the groundwork for a lifelong commitment to the refrigerant industry.
Joe Franke Promoted to Midwest technical manager
Joe quickly rises through the ranks, becoming Midwest Technical Manager for Union Carbide. His deep technical expertise and natural leadership distinguish him in a rapidly evolving field.
Steve Franke is born
Dubbed the nuisance of Naperville, Joe becomes a proud father.
Engineering Leadership
Joe Franke is promoted again, and becomes one of the youngest Vice Presidents in Union Carbide history.
Joe Franke at TCC
Joe Franke joins Technical Chemical Company (TCC) in Dallas, collaborating with industry legend Howard Dudley. This partnership enhances Joe’s technical influence on national refrigerant strategy.
Engineering Leadership
In collaboration with three major Texas refrigerant wholesalers, Joe co-founds RIP Inc., with a mission to supply and package large-scale refrigerant gas.
RIP Inc. quickly becomes a national force, exceeding 20 million pounds of refrigerant sold annually, including staples like R-22, R-12, and R-502.
Franke Family Expansion & Dupont Partnership
Franke Filling, another family-run operation, earns six consecutive contract renewals with DuPont, marking a longstanding relationship built on reliability and performance.
Dupont’s visibility soars through co-branding efforts and support from Howard Dudley, cementing its influence in the fluorochemical industry.
A New Generation: Steve Franke Emerges
Steve Franke leaves Bowie High School and heads to Texas Tech University—launching the next chapter of the Franke legacy. After a successful sales career in Las Vegas, NV, Steve returns to Texas and becomes Vice President of Operations at Franke Filling.
Dubbed affectionately the “Nuisance of Naperville” in his youth, Steve now brings focus, drive, and modern thinking to the family’s refrigerant enterprises.
Enter Hungry Bear
Steve Franke founds Hungry Bear Entertainment, a commercial and film production company. Among its projects is the heartwarming “Adventures of Bailey”, starring Steve’s own dogs—Duke and Bailey—and pivoting the company from horror into family-friendly films.
Industry Shifts: AIM Act & New Opportunities
The American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act empowers the EPA to regulate HFCs, opening new doors for sustainable refrigerant solutions. This pivotal moment sets the foundation for a new entity—Hungry Bear LLC.
As DuPont spins off its fluorochemicals division into Chemours, Hungry Bear positions itself to embrace this next chapter in refrigerant innovation.
Hungry Bear Refrigerant Gas is Founded
In a bold new step, Steve Franke, Kurt Franke, and Travis Mortensen—representing three generations—form Hungry Bear Refrigerant Gas (HBRGUSA).
Their shared mission:
To deliver premium-quality refrigerant gas with unmatched service, rooted in trust, innovation, and family values.
Today — Stronger Than Ever
Hungry Bear Refrigerant Gas continues to grow as a national supplier of refrigerant gas, offering unmatched industry experience and customer service.
From chemical engineering at Purdue to nationwide refrigerant distribution, HBRG remains a tribute to the Franke family’s dedication, resilience, and drive to keep America cool—one cylinder at a time.
