New England tire dealer Auger dies

Oct. 8, 2010

Tom Auger Sr., founder of Lewiston, Maine-based VIP Parts, Tires & Service Corp., died on Oct. 6 at the age of 82.

A Lewiston native, Auger originally founded VIP as L&A Tire Co. following a stint as a tire salesman for BF Goodrich Co. The dealership began modestly, operating out of a rented service bay with a used tire machine.

VIP is now the 15th largest independent tire store chain in the U.S. with 58 locations, including 56 retail stores, according to MTD research.

Auger is survived by his wife, Mildred; a son and two daughters, three grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and other relatives.