KENT R. AHLSWEDE: 1940-2025

Former NAPEO Board President Kent Rowe Ahlswede passed away on July 6, 2025, at 85. Ahlswede was also A founding member of NAPEO. He founded his PEO, Staff Resources, in 1974 (the company would eventually rebrand to Allevity). Ten years later, Ahlswede was a driving force in convening a meeting in Scottsdale, Arizona with 13 other PEOs. This meeting resulted in the group forming the National Staff Leasing Association (which would rebrand to NAPEO a decade later). Ahlswede was elected by his peers to serve as NSLA vice president and led the association as president from 1985-1988. Ahlswede’s leadership helped forge the PEO industry as we know it today. This legacy still continues as the PEO he founded, Allevity, is NAPEO’s longest tenured member. Ahlswede’s son, Craig, leads the company today.

Apart from business, Ahlswede was an active member in the community, and he left a lasting impact on those who knew him. He remained committed to community service and leadership across many organizations throughout his life. A proud member of both the Elks and Lions Clubs, he also served on the board of the North Valley Health Education Foundation, supported Butte County Search and Rescue, and served as President and long-time member of the of the Butte County Fair Board.

Ahlswede will certainly be remembered for his generosity, good humor and kindness to all. His dedication and leadership within our industry leaves an immeasurable impact that we’re all grateful for. He will be missed dearly.