TAMPA, Fla. — Wayne Spilker, a lifelong tire industry veteran, died unexpectedly Sept. 15. He was 67.
Mr. Spilker worked in the tire industry for more than 44 years in various positions at numerous tire dealerships and companies.
He first worked for NTW before starting his own company, American Tire Works, with a partner, which lasted five years.
He went on to work for EMPCO Industries, CPW Inc. and Wheel Works in California and then Morgan Tire & Auto Inc. and Tires Plus in Florida for several years.
While in Florida, he also worked for several different companies, including Tires Choice, South Dade Automotive and Achilles. Mr. Spilker most recently served as senior vice president of marketing for Staridge Co.
Mr. Spilker enjoyed visiting tire factories around the world and had a passion for racing and motorsports, according to his family, who noted that he was always willing to share advice or tricks of the trade.
Survivors include his wife of 39 years, Chris; daughters Brittany and Hannah; and brother Douglas Spilker.