Carrying a legacy forward

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Learn how the new owner of Wil-Mar plans to grow the company while preserving the quality, trust and problem-solving approach behind its products. 

For nearly 10 years, Mike Bothman knew Marianne Sumter before fully understanding the business they had built. What began as a service relationship gradually developed into an opportunity for Mike to become the new owner of Wil-Mar. As Mike considered changing directions in his career, Marianne was preparing for retirement. Those conversations eventually led to the acquisition of Wil-Mar’s assets and the beginning of a new chapter for Mike and the company.  

The opportunity appealed to him because Wil-Mar’s products reflect the values he has carried throughout his working life. The company is best known for its pipe collars, which are designed to protect vulnerable roof penetrations and give contractors a straightforward way to address potential leaks. Mike said, “I like helping people, and I like fixing problems, and this pipe collar does just that. Whether it’s an existing roof, new roof or just a replacement for a lesser product.” 

That focus extends beyond the products themselves. Mike believes strong customer relationships depend on clear communication, realistic expectations and consistent follow-through. Mike noted, “I believe in saying what you mean and doing what you say.” For him, growing the company also means ensuring that increased demand never comes at the expense of product quality or dependable service. 

Taking ownership carries an additional responsibility: preserving the history and reputation of a family owned company. Mike recognizes that selling a business requires trust, particularly when that business has been built through years of relationships with contractors and customers. He views his new role as an opportunity to protect that foundation while introducing Wil-Mar to a broader audience. 

Mike continued, “It means a lot to me to be the one that helps carry on, to grab the torch and keep it going.” His connection to the company’s previous owners, along with his own family ties to the Bay Area where many Wil-Mar customers are located, has helped provide a sense of continuity during the transition. 

As Wil-Mar moves forward, Mike hopes to expand its customer base and make pipe collars a standard part of the roofing process. His vision is ambitious, but it remains grounded in the same principle that first attracted him to the company: provide a well-made product that helps contractors solve real problems. 

Learn more about Wil-Mar and its roofing solutions!