Last updated Mar 27, 2026
Mike Hale, long-time sales and marketing manager at Little Beaver, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, September 4, 2021.
Hale’s influence on the fencing and drilling industries spanned decades. He began working in fencing as a summer job in high school. After learning the industry as a teenager, he continued installing fences across southern California, eventually owning his own fencing company for more than 20 years.
After experiencing first-hand the safety and efficiency of Little Beaver’s earth drills, Hale joined the company in 1996. For the past 25 years, he has been the voice behind sales and quote inquiries, using his expertise to help customers select the drilling products to bring that same safety and efficiency to their own companies.
“Mike’s impact on our company and industry has been tremendous,” said Little Beaver president Joe Haynes. “He understood the challenges our customers faced and was really able to help them find the solutions they needed. He will be greatly missed by all of us at Little Beaver, not only for the work he did but also for the person he was. We have lost a dear friend and industry advocate.”
A complete obituary and service information will be posted with Cochran Funeral Home at cochranfh.com.
Last updated Mar 27, 2026
Haynes Joins Company as Product Engineer
Little Beaver welcomes Joseph Haynes as a product engineer at the company’s manufacturing facility in Livingston, Texas. A fourth-generation Little Beaver team member, Haynes brings a familiarity of the family business, and innovative knowledge of product design processes. “When my grandfather, Newman Haynes, started in the auger industry years ago, he wanted a family-run business that left customers feeling like they were dealing with family,” said Joe Haynes, Little Beaver president. “Joseph grew up around this business and understands our vision for building safe and dependable products, while going the extra mile to serve our customers. He brings a unique experience with 3-D modeling and CAD software, which will enhance our product development process.”
Haynes most recently spent 11 years as a product engineer at a WFI International, a pipe fitting manufacturer. In his previous role, Haynes designed and developed a variety of fittings for different industries including oil and gas, nuclear and fossil fuel power plants as well as the food processing industry. Haynes brings a wealth of manufacturing experience as well as a strong understanding of mechanical engineering and product development to his new role. “I’m looking forward to bringing a fresh perspective and different technological expertise to Little Beaver,” said Joseph Haynes, Little Beaver engineer. “I’m excited to leverage my experience and insight to continue my family’s tradition of providing customer-driven design.” Haynes holds a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from Texas A&M University. Little Beaver began in 1947 and quickly became a top choice for hole digging equipment. Contractors in construction, landscape, fencing and many other industries favor the high-quality, versatile product line.
