Clair Williamsen, who helped develop aluminum truck bodies and trailers 60 years ago, died January 22 in Bountiful UT. He was 86. A 1943 graduate of the University of Utah Aeronautical Engineering program, Clair served three years as a naval officer in World War II. After the war, he rejoined his father “Ren” Williamsen in the family business, Williamsen Auto Body Co. Clair was a leader in developing aluminum dump bodies and trailers and the perimeter-rail flatbed trailer. A major contribution to the industry was his conception of the “bar-less” dump body in both steel and aluminum. He retired from the business in 1982, and many of his designs are still primary products of the Williamsen Mfg Division of Tesco American of Salt Lake City UT.
Jack Duggan Jr, who retired in 1999 after a 39-year career with Dana Corp, died February 7 in Stuart FL. He was active in truck equipment industry affairs, serving as a member of the National Truck Equipment Association board of trustees from 1983 to 1986. A graduate of St Michaels College, Duggan also attended Harvard Business School.
Harry John Goertz, a former salesperson for Elkhart IN-based RC Industries, died Jan 23, 2006. He was 61. Memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church-Building Fund, 400 West Blvd, Elkhart IN 46514 or the Center for Hospice and Palliative Care, 111 Sunnybrook St, South Bend IN 46637.