Former AAIA President Passes Away

Nov. 27, 2017—Al Gaspar, former president and CEO of the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA), passed away at his home in Cave Creek, Ariz. on Nov. 25.

"Al was one of the most respected and revered individuals in the business," said Bill Hanvey, president and CEO, Auto Care Association (ACA). "When Al walked into a meeting room you knew it - he had a presence that commanded attention."

Prior to becoming president and CEO of AAIA (now the ACA) in 2000, he was president of the Automotive Parts and Accessories Association (APAA) for five years following an unprecedented three terms as Chairman of the Board of APAA. 

His industry accomplishments include:

• He spearheaded an ambitious fundraising campaign to build the $5 million state-of-the-art Aftermarket Education Center building at Northwood University in Midland, Mich.
• He lead several member companies in raising funds to research the viability of consumer education as a solution to capture a share of the $70 billion in unperformed vehicle maintenance, which validated the need for and creation of the Be Car Care Aware consumer education campaign.

Gaspar received many recognitions, including the Distinguished Service Citation from the Automotive Hall of Fame and AAIA Aftermarket Executive of the Year. He served on a number of committees and boards, including the board of trustees of the Automotive Foundation for the Aftermarket and vice president of the board for the Coalition for Auto Repair Equality (CARE).

Gaspar is survived by his wife Timmi, son Chris, daughter Angela and two grandchildren, Logan and Sienna.

Donations in Gaspar’s name can be made to the University of the Aftermarket Foundation.