S.B. International, Inc. (SBI) has announced the passing of Christine Barggren, who co-founded the company in 1982 with her late husband, E. Richard "Dick" Barggren.

After a long career with Gulf Oil, Barggren joined Dick to build SBI from the ground up. Following his death in 1996, she took the helm as CEO. Under her leadership, SBI grew into one of the premier global distributors of aftermarket cylinder head components.

Barggren led in an industry where few women held top seats, and she did so with determination and conviction. She kept building through every challenge. The company's success today rests on the foundation she laid.

"Christine and Dick built SBI on integrity, hard work and an unwavering commitment to our customers," said Ryan Hamilton, president and CEO of S.B. International. "We will continue to grow the company while holding to the standards they set from day one. That is how we will honor her legacy."

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that memorial donations be made to the ASPCA or the Nashville Humane Society.

PRI extends its condolences to the Barggren family and the SBI team.