Kenneth (Kenny) Lewis, 64, who served in the Automotive Distribution Network’s product department in a variety of leadership roles over the last 19 years, has died.
The Network reports he was a respected figure in the auto care industry for more than 40 years. “Kenny Lewis will be remembered as a gentleman with a proven track record of delivering profitable growth revenue for the group’s members, in addition to his quick wit and personable approach to business,” says David Prater, Network president. “More than anything, I know I speak for the entire group when I say we have lost a dear, trusted friend. Kenny will be sorely missed.”
He was born in Hugoton, Kan., on Jan. 29, 1954, to Vernon and Neoma Lewis. He and his family soon after relocated to Owasso, Okla., where he graduated from Owasso High School in 1972. Lewis and his wife, Marilyn, were married in 1978, and the couple had three children. Though nearly 24 years had passed since he last called Oklahoma home, Lewis remained an Okie at heart.
After stops at Green Light, Parts Plus founding member Parts Inc., and Big A Auto Parts, Lewis became the group’s product manager in 1999, before being promoted to senior product manager for special markets, overseeing the following Network product programs: tools & equipment, commodities & accessories, and body-shop supplies. A huge racing fan, Lewis constructed a sports-memorabilia museum in his home, which includes several signed items featuring Parts Plus Top Fuel driver Clay Millican, who was a friend.
