From MEMA Industry News

Neil McDaniel of Lafayette, Calif., former chairman of the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA), passed away Sept. 5 at the age of 93.

He was an entrepreneur, working in commercial real estate, consumer products and the automotive aftermarket industries. While at Valley Tow-Rite Inc. in California (now Valley Towing, Madison Heights, Mich.), McDaniel became active in MEMA.

In 1969, he became MEMA chairman and also served as president of its Automotive Presidents’ Council. His efforts were recognized in 1971 with MEMA’s highest honor, the Triangle Award.

“Neil McDaniel was a truly outstanding leader in our industry. He served many years as a board member and officer of MEMA during the very formative years of the industry,” said Bob McKenna, president and CEO of MEMA. “He was admired and respected by all and leaves a wonderful legacy of commitment and integrity."

McDaniel is survived by his wife, Barbara; his daughters and their husbands, Marianne and Bill Gagen, and Joanne and Terry Dale; five grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Services will be 10 a.m. PDT, Friday, Sept. 10, Christ the King Catholic Church, 199 Brandon Road, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity or to Holy Names University, 3500 Mountain Blvd., Oakland CA 94605.