Industry Loses Long-Time Advocate and Innovator John Abromavage: 1932-2010

PHOENIX, July 26 /PRNewswire/ -- The truck-and trailer-rental industry lost a long-time advocate and innovator on July 22, with the passing of John Abromavage Sr. He was 78.

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Abromavage, a 52-year employee of U-Haul International, Inc., was the director of the Company's Engineering Services Department for more than 40 years.

Abromavage also was an Air Force flight engineer during the Korean Conflict, flying approximately 152 missions in B-25s, B-29s, C-46s and C-119s, to name but a few.

Abromavage was active in the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) for more than 30 years, serving as chair of its Trailer and Standards Committees. Abromavage worked closely with, and presented U-Haul Company's and the industry's viewpoint to legislative bodies, regulatory agencies, enforcement agencies, and automotive and engineering societies and organizations.

Abromavage enjoyed a national reputation for his expertise in vehicle safety and design. He received numerous awards and commendations from state governments for helping to improve vehicle safety standards. His knowledge and experience in accident-prevention methods were sought out by law-enforcement agencies throughout the country.

His list of engineering accomplishments is impressive and extensive: 31 U.S. and Canadian patents, 75 international patents and 24 solidly proven truck and trailer designs. (A sketch pad was never far from Abromavage's side, and he was forever jotting down notes and drawing up product-improvement ideas.)

In 1959, Abromavage was involved with the design and manufacturing of the U-Haul HV trailer, which was the first tandem trailer with brakes.

And in 1967, following the birth of the U.S. Department of Transportation, Abromavage led testing to prove that towing with a trailer was, indeed, an efficient and effective option for do-it-yourself movers.

Though not many people have heard the word "luten," millions of people know them as "Mom's Attic" on the front of the van box over the cab of U-Haul trucks. Abromavage was there for that one, too.

In an interview in 2008, Abromavage explained. "Back in 1970, (U-Haul co-founder) L.S. Shoen went to Europe and saw what was on the road in England. During seven days in June, we spec'd out a whole new van body. Now, of course, you see that truck style everywhere, but U-Haul was the company that brought the convenience and extra storage capacity of overcab space to the self-moving public."

"John stood up for the U-Haul customer for decades," stated U-Haul CEO Joe Shoen. "His passing is sad. He has left a legacy of work product and a work ethic. We should honor him by maintaining these standards."

Abromavage is survived by his son, John, and his daughter, Tammy.

John will be interred at the National Cemetery in Phoenix in a private ceremony.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations in John's name be made to one of the following:

SOURCE U-Haul International, Inc.