Jerry Mariam, President of Quality Equipment Sales in Gardena, California was honored with the Automotive Parts Remanufacturers Association’s Distinguished Service Award on Nov. 3, 2013 during the International BIG R Show in Las Vegas.
The award recognizes Mariam for his “Distinguished Business Statesmanship and Dedicated Service Rendered to the Entire Industry of Automotive Parts Remanufacturing.”
Mariam was born in Cape Girardeau, Mo., on April 19, 1942. His father and uncle owned a parts store and salvage yard in Sikeston, Mo., so Mariam grew up in the automotive world. In 1950 Mariam’s family moved to Southern California.
Quality Equipment Sales, which started in 1986, became one of the most successful suppliers in the world providing new and used equipment for the rebuilding industry. Prior to that Mariam was involved with other companies and has been around the remanufacturing industry since the 1940’s.
Mariam has been a staunch supporter of APRA, having volunteered his time and service since 2005 as the Manufacturer Supplier Representative to the Executive Committee. His positive outlook and giving nature made him a natural when it came to bringing in new exhibitors to the BIG R Show or helping staff liaison with members. Mariam knew everybody in the industry and was always willing to lend a hand and be the voice of reason.
Although Mariam was not able to attend the 2013 BIG R Show due to health reasons, he did receive his Distinguished Service Award. When presented with the award Mariam said, “It should be me giving the trophy to the industry for bringing so many good friends into my life.”
Unfortunately, Mariam passed away from his long battle with cancer on Dec. 1. The industry lost a great contributor and man on that day and we all have lost a wonderful friend.
APRA proudly welcomes Mariam to this distinguished group of leaders of the remanufacturing industry. He will be sorely missed.
Subscribe to Motor Age and receive articles like this every month…absolutely free. Click here
