Wyoming, Minn. (Oct. 13, 2025) — Lakes Gas, a leading provider of propane in the Upper Midwest, announced the appointment of Gayle Hayhurst and Joe Coughlin to its board of directors. The Lakes Gas new board members bring extensive experience and leadership that will be invaluable as the company continues to grow and serve its customers.
Lakes Gas New Board Members
"We are thrilled to welcome Gayle and Joe to our board," said David Hartwell, current Lakes Gas board chair. "Their deep expertise in corporate leadership and financial management will be a tremendous asset. We are confident they will provide valuable guidance as we navigate future opportunities and challenges."
Gayle Hayhurst
Gayle Hayhurst brings over 30 years of experience as a C-Suite executive in corporate finance and human resources. Hayhurst is known for her strategic perspective, ability to build strong relationships and teams and drive results.
“I am passionate about helping family-owned organizations achieve their strategic goals and ensuring the continuity of their family legacy,” said Hayhurst. “I am very excited to join Lakes Gas, an incredibly well run and led organization, and work closely with the family and leadership team to chart the next many decades of success for the organization.”
Hayhurst was recognized as a Top Woman in Business by MSP Business Journal in 2018. She has held senior executive roles in a variety of companies, including Pillsbury, General Mills, Best Buy and Schwan's Food Company. She most recently served as the chief human resources officer (CHRO) for Schwan's Home Delivery and currently sits on the finance committee for the Lafayette Club. Hayhurst holds an undergraduate degree in quantitative methods and marketing, along with a master’s in financial management from the University of St. Thomas.
Joe Coughlin
Joe Coughlin joins the board with more than 30 years of business experience as a C-level executive and corporate director. He is recognized as a results-driven, customer-centric leader with a proven track record across both public and private companies.
“I am honored to join the Lakes Gas’ board of directors,” Coughlin said. “I truly enjoy working directly with owners and management teams in a family-owned environment and I am energized by this opportunity to roll up my sleeves and contribute to Lakes Gas’ continued success in a changing energy sector landscape,” he continued.
Coughlin was recognized as the MSP Business Journal's 2020 CFO of the Year in the public company sector. A board member for EDCO Products currently, he has also served in C-level executive roles at Ergotron, Twin City Fan Companies, LTD. and BERMO Inc. Coughlin holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of St. Thomas.
