Donald G. Bethune Former Dayco President and Former Chair of Automotive Industries Association of Canada Passes at 75

Don Bethune, former president of Dayco and former chair of the Automtoive Industries Association of Canada, passed away June 12. He was 75.

Bethune was born April 11, 1937  in Berwick, Nova Scotia to Roderick W. and Margaret C. Bethune. He started his career at the Royal Bank of Canada but soon joined the automotive industry, where his leadership abilities earned him positions as president of AP Parts Canadian division, Exide Canada, Inc., and eventually Dayco Canada.

In 1979, he relocated to Dayton, Ohio USA to take over as president, Dayco Automotive Aftermarket Company.

When Don Ross retired in 1989, Don Bethune was promoted to president of Dayco’s entire business. He retired in 1993 at the age of 56.

During his career, Bethune held the position of chairman of the Automotive Industries Association (AIA), was involved with the Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA) and received multiple accolades for his distinguished service and contributions to the automotive industry.

Dayco is donating $5,000 to GAAS to be used for student scholarships given in in the name of Donald G. Bethune. This serves as a small remembrance of a man who was well-liked and respected both within Dayco and throughout the automotive aftermarket.