The Canadian collision industry lost a true icon this week. With deep sorrow we announce the passing of Larry Jefferies.
Larry made an indelible mark on the collision industry worldwide and especially in Canada. With his deep knowledge of the business he was able to play an instrumental part in a seismic change in the way the once fragmented industry functioned. With his partners in CARSTAR Canada he spread the ideas of consolidation, cooperation and collegiality completely from coast to coast to coast. He was a true “Road Warrior” logging many miles across this huge country, meeting with various stakeholders and franchisees in the industry, helping each to see a brighter future.
Either directly or indirectly he has had an impact on each of us associated with this great industry. He was one of the good guys, generous with time and experiences – anything he could do to help someone progress toward success.
Larry was impactful beyond his position as Executive Vice-President for CARSTAR Canada as he held major roles in CCIF, chairing the steering committee on 2 different occasions, doing committee work and leading breakout sessions. He reached people on a personal level too and helped establish many multi-million dollar businesses by helping business owners start, build and refine their operations. Many of us owe a debt of gratitude for his assistance along our pathways to success.
Even after retiring from CARSTAR he stayed attached to helping industry folks looking to transition into new phases of business or ease into retirement. With his partners in Collision Builders he advised and facilitated many deals to the betterment of all concerned.
In the honour I had in spending time with him over the last few years he constantly talked about the industry friends he had, keeping up to speed on what they were doing and in the loop on developing trends and challenges to be faced. I heard him regret only one thing in the time we spent together; that he didn’t have more energy to do more work to help more people.
He was also charitable beyond our industry, giving his time as a director for the Burlington Millennium Orchestra, again helping grow an organization beyond humble roots. Every once in a while you could encourage him to tickle the ivories too.
Of course he could not have done what he did without tremendous support from his cherished family. His lovely wife, Janice, always long-suffering of the hours he logged and the “rubber chicken” he ate, was unwavering. He had three great kids, Leanne, Susie and Robert and also leaves behind five grandkids.
In one of my most recent articles I wrote about standing on the shoulders of giants, how we all have an advantage due to the people that came before us and helped us along in life and business. Larry was one of those giants.
Larry, our friend, you will be truly missed.
For those wishing to pay respects, there is a viewing Wednesday, November 5th, from 4:00 to 7:00.
Funeral services will be Thursday November 6th at 11:00.
Both will be held at Turner Family Funeral Home
53 Main St. Dundas, ON L9H 2P7
Jay Perry is regular columnist for Collision Repair magazine.
