It is with deep sadness that the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) and the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) announce the passing of Jeremy Denton, former AASA vice president, at age 36 after a valiant, two-year battle with cancer.
“From the moment Jeremy joined our staff in 2005 until the sudden onset of his illness in 2011, he was an outstanding employee and a truly valued asset to our association,” said Steve Handschuh, MEMA president and chief executive officer. “The time he was with us was so tragically brief, yet he advanced our association and touched so many people in the automotive aftermarket with his passion for the industry and his boundless enthusiasm for its future.
“As we cope with the loss of our close colleague and beloved friend, we are both grateful and inspired by the spontaneous outpouring of support from the industry for Jeremy and his family during his illness,” Handschuh continued. “All the messages and gifts from Jeremy’s colleagues and friends in the aftermarket have been a great comfort to his family. They will stand as a lasting testament of his character for his family, especially his young sons.”
Denton joined AASA in 2005 as director, programs and member services, and executive director of the AASA Overseas Automotive Council (OAC). He directed the activities of the Filter Manufacturers Council (FMC) and the Brake Manufacturers Council (BMC). Denton also served as staff executive of the AASA China Aftermarket Forum (CAF).
In 2010, Denton was promoted to AASA vice president, programs and member services. His responsibilities included membership recruitment and retention, event planning, sponsorships and affiliate development, in addition to his continuing roles with the OAC, FMC, BMC and CAF.
Before joining MEMA, Denton served as director, industry affairs for PCIA-The Wireless Infrastructure Association with offices in Washington, D.C. He began his career with the Industrial Telecommunications Association where he served as director, government affairs.
Denton was a graduate of the University of Arkansas and received his master’s degree in public policy at The George Washington University. He was a stalwart fan of the Arkansas Razorbacks, an avid hunter and a beloved member of the “TGIF” Friday night bowling league in Cary, N.C.
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