Industry Veteran Anthony Battista Passes Away
In addition to serving the automotive aftermarket for more than 50 years, Battista was a founder of the Independent Warehouse Distributors’ program distribution group in 1985 and served as chairman of its board of directors until his retirement in 2009.
STEMCO Announces the Passing Of Longtime Employee Richard Palmer
Palmer had served in several roles at STEMCO since joining the company in 1987, most recently holding the position of segment business leader for wheel end products.
Obituary: Ken Bridges, Sales Director Of Gates Corp., Passes Away At 57
Bridges spent 28 years working for Gates, beginning as field representative in Oklahoma, moving to field management in Dallas, and for the past 20-plus years in numerous corporate office and field management assignments based in Denver.
Former Autopart International President Roger Patkin Passes Away
Patkin had a passion for the business and was an active member of several industry associations, including serving as a board member of the Auto Care Association from 1995-2005.
Former Uniroyal President Sheldon Salzman Passes Away
Salzman was active in the tire industry for more than 35 years, in various manufacturing, research and development positions.
Discount Tire Confirms Passing of Founder and Chairman, Bruce Halle
“I have had the privilege of working with and learning from the most talented, respected, humble and kind leader anyone could hope for, and I speak on behalf of all who knew Bruce in that he will be dearly missed,” said Michael Zuieback, CEO at Discount Tire.
Charles Victor, Founder Of Treatment Products, Passes Away
Victor started Treatment Products in 1972 in the basement of his home in Chicago. A regular on many show car circuits in the 70s and 80s, the company grew to become a major manufacturer of customized waxes and polishes in the U.S.
Former Diamond Standard Team Member Geoff Crane Passes Away
“Geoff was an integral part of the Diamond Standard team for many years,” said Mike O’Neal of Diamond Standard Parts. “Our sympathies go out to Geoff’s family and friends.”
Obituary: Vincent J. Brozek Passes Away At 96
Brozek was vice president of Connecticut Wheel & Rim Co. for more than 40 years and, after retirement from there, went on to help found two major marketing groups in the heavy-duty parts business: Vipar and TruckPride.
In Memoriam: Stan Rodman, Former ABPA Executive Director, 1937-2017
On Friday, July 21, the former longtime Automotive Body Parts Association (ABPA) Executive Director passed away after dealing with a lengthy illness.
Obituary: Mike Bland, Longtime Industry Veteran, Passes Away At 61
Working for various manufacturers all while maintaining a seat on the Automotive Sales Council, Bland was a good friend to whomever he came in contact with and will be deeply missed.