JUPITER, Fla. — Erik R. Olsen, who stepped down as CEO and president of TBC Corp. in June 2021, died on Sept. 28 after a brief illness. He was 59.
Olsen had been with TBC since 2004, joining the tire wholesaler and retailer as senior vice president and chief marketing officer. Prior to that he was a vice president of sales for Michelin North America.
Laurent Bourrut, a Group Michelin executive, succeeded Olsen as TBC's CEO.
"Erik was a friend to many and a true leader to all," Bourrut said. "He worked tirelessly to lead TBC throughout the years implementing countless initiatives to support the organization’s industry-leading position.
"Those who were fortunate enough to know him will always remember him as a charismatic, passionate, supportive and generous person."
One year after joining TBC, Olsen's duties were expanded to include oversight of TBC's Carroll Tire distribution arm. In 2008, he was named president and CEO of TBC Wholesale Group. He was appointed COO of TBC in 2013 and in January 2014 he became TBC's president and CEO, succeeding Larry Day.
During his tenure with TBC, the Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.-based company experienced rapid growth and expansion. One of the highlights was the integration in 2018 of Carroll Tire and Michelin's TCi wholesale business to create National Tire Wholesale (NTW), one of the largest tire distributors in the U.S.
During his time at TBC, the company was recognized as one of the 50 Most Engaged Workplaces in North America.
"It has been both my honor and privilege to be a TBC team member for the last 17 years," Olsen said at the time his retirement was announced.
Olsen, born in New York City on July 28, 1963, is survived by his wife Heather Olsen; sons Christopher and Thomas Olsen; daughter Kesley (Story) Cosgrove; and sister Kristin Landis and brother-in-law Eric Landis.
Olsen attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, according to his obituary.
A celebration of his life will be held in the future.
Donations may be made to the Jupiter Medical Center Foundation or Trustbridge Hospice.
