SAN ANTONIO, Texas – The Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance has announced that its annual golf tournament has an added special significance for 2013. Earlier this year, the Alliance Board of Directors donated $100,000 to the University of the Aftermarket Foundation to honor the memory of Walter Spence Jr. The Alliance’s Channel Partner Advisory Council (CPAC) also has recommended the 2013 golf tournament at the Turnberry Isle in Aventura, Fla., be dedicated to Mr. Spence, in addition to helping raise funds to support the University of the Aftermarket Foundation.

During his 40-year career in the aftermarket, Spence made his presence felt with numerous contributions to the improvement of the industry. He served on a variety of AWDA committees and was a past member of its board of directors. Tri-States Automotive Warehouse was a charter member of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, and Spence served on the Auto Value and Alliance boards for a total of 21 years. He was a sitting board member at the time of his passing.

“Walter was a tremendous aftermarket businessman. He will be missed not only at Tri-States, but within the Alliance group and the industry at large,” said John Washbish, president and CEO of the Alliance. “He was actively involved in multiple areas of our industry in support of education. Nothing would make Walter happier than having companies pledging support to the University of the Aftermarket Foundation in his memory.”

The Alliance CPAC members include:
•Doug Arnold, Dorman
•Jeff Blocher, WIX Filters
•Kirt Denman, Federal-Mogul
•Larry Friesner, Tenneco
•Mack Gregory, Peterson
•Doug Kaufman, Anchor Industries
•Doug Kubinak, East Penn
•Fran Labun, DENSO
•Garey Lange, Standard Motor Products
•Rob Larsen, Gates
•Jay McCorry, Robert Bosch
•Scott Street, Valvoline