ST. LOUIS—Michael A. Berra, 92, founder of Community Tire Co., died Jan. 16 in St. Louis. He spent more than 60 years in the tire business and was inducted into the National Tire Dealers & Retreaders Association Hall of Fame in 1991. In 1995, the American Retreaders' Association inducted Mr. Berra into its Hall of Fame.
In 1935, Mr. Berra sold his 6-year-old gas station to start Community Tire. He developed retread techniques and manufactured repair patches. He helped found the Missouri Tire Dealers Association.
About 10 years ago, he retired and his sons divided control of the business. Phil is president of Community Wholesale Tire Inc., which has eight retail and two wholesale facilities. Michael is president of Community Tire Retreading, which specializes in commercial and off-the-road tires.
Mr. Berra also is survived by his wife, Alice, and two daughters.