The University of the Aftermarket Foundation board of trustees has established the John “Jack” F. Creamer Memorial Fund in honor of its vice chairman who passed away March 25 at the age of 84. The foundation plans to allocate donations made in his memory to help educate the next generation of auto care industry professionals.
“Jack was perhaps the strongest industry advocate the aftermarket has ever known. He was a champion of continuing education, serving on the University of the Aftermarket Foundation board since its inception,” said John Washbish, treasurer of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation. “Throughout his legendary career, Jack provided sound advice, guidance and wisdom to countless suppliers and distributors and was a mentor and friend to many, including me.
“It is a testament to the profound impact that Jack had on our industry that so many want to pay tribute to him through a donation to the University of the Aftermarket Foundation. We are honored to accept these donations in his memory and will ensure that they are used toward aftermarket scholarships, just as he would want them to be.”
An active member of the industry throughout his life, Creamer began his aftermarket career in 1963. After working at American Parts System in a variety of positions, including president, Creamer joined Martin Fromm and Associates in 1969 as executive vice president, managing several trade associations, including the Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA), an organization he held dear and went on to serve as its president. Creamer was one of the founders of the Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium (GAAS) and was instrumental in raising funds for scholarships and educational programs. He earned numerous awards throughout his career, including the Martin Fromm Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012.
To make a donation in memory of Jack Creamer, send a check, made payable to the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, to the University of the Aftermarket Foundation/Creamer Memorial, 7101 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 1300, Bethesda, MD 20814. For more information, call (816) 584-0511.
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