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Following graduation from Abraham Lincoln High School, Ivan married his high shool sweetheart, Sharon Jackson on May 2, 1962; they had four children and four grand children. After graduation Ivan went to work for Wendell Clark at "Auto Re Nu" home of the $29.95 paint job. Ivan started as a painter and soon became shop foreman. In January of 1977, Ivan purchased the shop and renamed it "Red Rooster Auto Body" a new name as unique as the new owner.
Ivan was dedicated to both the industry and the community. He was a member of the South Omaha Business Association and the Optimist's Club. He was a member of the Nebraska Autobody Association and held many offices. Ivan taught auto body at Metro Community College for several years and served on the Auto Body Advisory Board. For several years Ivan taught I-CAR classes to both the auto body and insurance industries. He believed that through proper training and communication the industry would be strengthened and flourish, and he understood the importance of proper training and education not only for those entering the industry, but also for those continuing to work in the industry.
Ivan based his business and his life on honesty and integrity and he dedicated himself to fostering professionalism and fairness in the auto body industry. Ivan retired in the spring of 2001 due to health problems. He passed away on March 8, 2002 at home with his family. During his life, Ivan made many friends both in the industry and his personal life and one thing is for certain, if you knew him, he left a lasting impact in your life. Ivan was dearly loved and is greatly missed, but the lessons that he taught us, and the memories he gave us will remain with us forever.
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An eternal remembrance to Red Rooster Autobody |
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