Guy Westhafer STAUNTON, Va.—Guy Grant Westhafer, 86, died Feb. 25 in Staunton, Va. Mr. Westhafer founded Central Tire Corp. in Verona, Va., and remained active in the firm until declining health forced him to retire several years ago.
Mr. Westhafer started his tire business career in 1936 as an employee of the B.F. Goodrich Co. He started Central Tire in 1945 and added the firm's retreading operation in 1952.
Central Tire now is run by Mr. Westhafer's two sons: M. Terry, company president, and Thomas, vice president. Other survivors include his wife, Geneva, and four grandchildren.
J. Larry Ezell
BUFFALO GROVE, Ill.—J. Larry Ezell, 64, died March 30. Mr. Ezell had a 45-year career in the tire business, beginning in the mailroom at B.F. Goodrich Co. During 16 years with BFG, he advanced to positions in product and sales management and private brand sales and marketing.
Mr. Ezell later joined Eldorado Tires in Troy, Mich., as vice president of sales, founded Seacoast Tire in Tampa, Fla., and ended his career with Ray Carr Tires Inc. in Harrisonburg, Va., as senior vice president of sales and distribution, retiring in 1996.
He is survived by his wife, Barbara, two daughters and three stepsons.
Willian Sweatt
Palm Springs, Calif.—William A. Sweatt, 71, died Feb. 11. He spent 18 years at Toyo Tire (U.S.A.) Corp. in sales management and retired in 1993 as assistant to the president.
Mr. Sweatt previously worked for OK Rubber Welders, Firestone and General Tire.
He is survived by his wife, Lee, and a son.