William H. “Bill” Stoller, the trailblazing founder and CEO of Xenium, passed away in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, leaving behind a monumental legacy in business, community leadership, and philanthropy. Known across the staffing and employment services industries as a visionary and innovator, Stoller’s impact extended far beyond the boardroom.
He was 73. Born with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, Stoller built a remarkable career that reshaped the staffing and professional employer organization (PEO) sectors.
As the founder, CEO, and chairman of Express Employment Professionals, one of the largest staffing firms in North America, he oversaw the growth of an organization that connects thousands of people to meaningful employment every year.
Through The Stoller Group, he owned 30 Express franchise offices across five states—Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Nevada, and Colorado—helping power the local economies of communities throughout the Western U.S.
Stoller’s success was grounded in a strong educational foundation. He graduated from Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon with a bachelor’s degree in business and economics.
He later earned an MBA from Portland State University and continued to enhance his knowledge through prestigious certifications from the American Staffing Association (Certified Staffing Professional), the National Association of Personnel Services (Certified Personnel Consultant), and the International Franchise Association (Certified Franchise Executive).
His career began humbly in 1973 at Acme Personnel Services, where he started as a consultant trainee. Through hard work, dedication, and a natural ability to lead, he quickly rose through the ranks, eventually serving as a regional manager for Oregon and Utah. These early experiences laid the groundwork for his later success in founding and expanding his own ventures.
Beyond his contributions to the employment industry, Stoller was also a respected figure in the world of winemaking. As the proprietor of Stoller Vineyards in Dayton, Oregon, he helped cultivate one of the state’s premier wine destinations, overseeing 180 acres of estate-grown grapes.
He was also a co-owner of Chehalem Winery in Newberg, Oregon, where his passion for Pinot Noir and sustainable viticulture further demonstrated his diverse talents and enduring commitment to excellence.
Stoller’s influence extended into countless professional organizations. He served as Chairman of the American Staffing Association (2008–2009), Chairman of the National Association of Personnel Services (2000–2001), and President of the Oregon Association of Personnel Consultants.
He was also an active member of the International Franchise Association, the National Association of Professional Employer Organizations, the World Presidents Association, and the Chief Executives Organization.
Equally committed to giving back, Stoller was deeply involved in community service and nonprofit work. He was a longtime member and past president of the Rotary Club of Portland, a member of the A-dec Board of Directors, and a trustee and past chairman of the Pacific University Board.
His support of the arts and education was evident through his roles on the boards of the Classic Wines Auction, Greenlight Greater Portland, and the International Pinot Noir Celebration.
Those who knew Bill Stoller remember him not only for his business achievements but also for his generosity, integrity, and dedication to building opportunities for others. He was a mentor, a philanthropist, and a steadfast advocate for workforce development.
William H. Stoller’s passing leaves a profound void in the business and philanthropic communities. His leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence will continue to inspire generations to come. He is survived by his family, a wide network of colleagues and friends, and the countless lives he touched through his life’s work.
