Former Uni-Select Manitoba exec dies at age 65

Neil Herbert Creek: Sept. 6, 1954 – Sept. 22, 2019

Former Uni-Select executive Neil Creek, known to some as “Speedy,” passed away Sept. 22 at the age of 65.

The well-known aftermarketer, an active volunteer with Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA), was chairman of the association’s Manitoba Division in 2017 and 2018.

He retired from Uni-Select in January.

Creek began his aftermarket career not long after graduating from the University of Manitoba. In July 1979 he joined Gillis & Warren, part of the Booker Automotive Group in Winnipeg.

Shortly thereafter, he transferred to Western Warehouse Distributors, the automotive arm of Acklands Ltd.

Throughout his career with Acklands/Bumper to Bumper, he was involved in every aspect of the operation from  warehousing and purchasing, to banner programs and sales.

In 2001, the Prairie automotive assets of Acklands-Grainger were purchased by Uni-Select. Creek participated in the sale of the corporate Bumper to Bumper Stores to associates, the consolidation of two automotive D.C. inventories, and the merging the Bumper to Bumper associate program with the A.P.P. Associate program, serviced by a single D.C.

Through to his retirement in January of 2019, Neil was the Uni-Select sales and development Manager for Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario

He was considered him the “go-to” contact in the region for Uni-Select.

According to colleagues, all vendors enjoyed calling on Creek when they visited Winnipeg. Local vendor’s enjoyed detailing with him and discussing the market. His customers enjoyed the benefit of his knowledge and tenacity.

AIA’s Manitoba division is planning a donation to Cancer Manitoba in Neil’s memory.