Gerald “Jerry” Riccioni, 63, passed away last week, leaving a legacy of enthusiasm for the automotive aftermarket. Riccioni led the Old World Industries (OWI) national sales team for the past 30 years.

“He was an iconic automotive aftermarket executive whose loss will be felt by the entire industry and will be missed by all,” said Tom Hurvis, founder of Old World Industries, makers of PEAK automotive products.

“Jerry was one of the highest energy and most creative people I have worked with in the aftermarket. Jerry didn’t know the word ‘no’; he always found a way to make it work. A true partner in the business and a good friend,” said Ken Klein, vice president of merchandising customer satisfaction at AutoZone.

His vision for the retail customer and DIY consumer ignited sales of OWI’s flagship brand, Peak. He is credited with helping launch Peak Wiper Blades, Electronics, Motor Oil and gaining distribution for BlueDEF (diesel exhaust fluid), while also managing acquisitions, including most recently EiKO automotive lighting.

“Jerry was more than just a supplier to myself and O’Reilly Auto Parts. He was a good friend who truly cared about you as a person and your company. He would always find a way to make everything work out when we had any issues so that our company and Old World continued to grow. He was well-respected in the industry and will be missed not only at Old World, but in the industry as a whole. I will truly miss working with him as I have in the past,” said Tom Seboldt, vice president of merchandise at O’Reilly Auto Parts.

Riccioni is survived by his wife Kim Jones, and two stepsons, Michael and Christopher Jones.

OWI is planning to honor Riccioni and will be making an announcement in early 2017.