Don Schlenger, co-founder and chairman emeritus of the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF), died on May 15th, the foundation announced. And though retired, he remained involved with the foundation up until his 101st birthday on May 9.
“Don was the heart and soul of the foundation,” said Larry Magee, president of AACF. “He continued to check in by phone at our board meetings and with individuals on the board even after he was not able to travel.”
The foundation said Schlenger served as a captain in the Air Force during World War II. After the war he joined the family auto parts business, eventually becoming president and CEO. Through several acquisitions, he grew it into one of the largest auto parts retailers in the Northeast at that time. Don sold the business in 1988.
AACF Executive Director Joel Ayres added, “Don would call me at least once a month to catch up with the operations and offer his advice. Though his body was starting to fail, his mind was as sharp as ever. We will miss his wisdom and dedication to this organization that he loved.”
