Hardlines distributor Blish-Mize Co. of Atchison, Kan., has appointed Johathan D. Mize as president and chief operating officer, making him the fifth generation of the Mize family to hold that title, Blish-Mize chairman and CEO John H. Mize announced earlier this year. Jonathan previously was executive vice president.

Jonathan Mize's appointment is part of a series of moves "that will pave the way for an orderly transition of executive management duties in the future,” said John Mize, who had been president of the company since 1980 and chairman, president, and CEO since 1982.

Blish-Mize also announced that Lydie E. Funk, formerly the corporate controller for MGP Ingredients of Atchison, was named vice president and controller, while longtime sales veteran Douglas Long was named vice president for sales and marketing.

“We feel that we have built a strong team of executives that will help carry the company successfully forward into the future. We believe that our officers and managers are very capable and are committed to the company’s success,” John Mize said. Blish-Mize customers include hardware stores, retail home centers, building materials dealers, lumberyards and paint stores.

The company announced the changes on April 23.