Todd spent more than 50 years in automotive and industrial sales; remembrances or donations can be sent to the University of the Aftermarket Foundation
Chicago—Bill Wade, managing director of aftermarket consultant Wade&Partners, has announced that Russ Todd, a partner and 50-plus year veteran in industrial, automotive distributor and OE sales, passed away Thursday, Jan. 21. He was 81.
The cause was complications of Parkinson’s disease.
Todd’s career started with Chicago Rawhide (now SKF) as a regional manager in Texas and the Southwest. Later, he managed the development of new heavy truck products, including the popular Brakemaster line of HD vehicle airline drier/filters.
Always an innovator, he later began his own operation, supplying fresh-squeezed (12 hour) citrus juices to restaurants in Las Vegas and New York hotels and resorts.
Russ returned to his aftermarket roots with the formation of Russ Todd Sales Associates, experienced sales consultants assisting emerging manufacturers to secure distribution in the heavy-duty truck sector.
At Wade&Partners, he specialized in introducing new concepts and product lines to truck-stops and convenience stores.
Throughout his career, Todd was an enthusiastic sales trainer (especially for those new to the aftermarket) and education supporter, as well as being a long time TMC participant.
A memorial service will be held this summer. Remembrances or donations can be sent to the University of the Aftermarket Foundation.
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