TULSA, Okla. – The Dayco Automotive Aftermarket Division has reported that its former president, Don Bethune, died June 12. He was 75.
Bethune was born in Berwick, Nova Scotia, to Roderick W. and Margaret C. Bethune. He started his career at the Royal Bank of Canada but soon joined the automotive industry, where his leadership abilities earned him positions as president of AP Parts Canadian division; Exide Canada Inc.; and eventually Dayco Canada. In 1979, Bethune relocated to Dayton, Ohio, to take over as president, Dayco Automotive Aftermarket Co. When Don Ross retired in 1989, Bethune was promoted to president of Dayco’s entire business. He retired in 1993 at the age of 56.
During his career, Bethune held the position of chairman of the Automotive Industries Association (AIA), was involved with the Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA) and also received multiple accolades for his distinguished service and contributions to the automotive industry.
In his honor, Dayco is donating $5,000 to the GAAS Scholarship Fund, to be used for student scholarships given in in the name of Donald G. Bethune. "This serves as a small remembrance of a man who was well-liked and respected both within Dayco and throughout the automotive aftermarket," Dayco officials said in a statement.
