Michael R. DeHaan
Michael R. DeHaan was born in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan on December 24, 1941. He was married to Terry Ann Gaffney on February 5, 1963. Together they have three children, Elizabeth, Sara and Selina.
In 1959, Michael joined the U.S. Coast Guard and served until 1963, at which time he was honorably discharged. He went on to receive his Bachelors Degree in Sociology and Physical Education in 1968 from Springfield College in Springfield, Massachusetts. He entered the towing industry in 1976 as Director of Field Services of the Wisconsin Motor Carriers Association. Currently, Michael works in the areas of motor carrier safety and regulatory compliance.
Michael is an expert on towing and recovery laws and policies, has published numerous guides for tow truck operators in Wisconsin, to include “Abandon Motor Vehicles in Wisconsin”, “Towing & Storage Liens”, and “Regulatory Guide for Tow Truck Operators”. He has helped with state and national legislative issues affecting the towing industry and is recognized by the Wisconsin DOT and Transportation Commission for legislative testimony.
Michael has served as the Director of the Wisconsin Towing Association for 30 years, served on the TRAA Legislative Board, and has received numerous awards for his outstanding service to the industry from the TRAA, Wisconsin Towing Association, Tow Times, and the Minnesota Professional Towing Association.
Michael hopes to retire in 2007, however, will continue to work for the Wisconsin Towing Association in some capacity. He and his wife hope to travel and relax in the years to come.
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HALL OF FAME NOMINEE ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Tow Equipment/Product Innovation
Innovation of a product sold in the marketplace that has helped move the industry forward. Candidate must have a minimum of 10 years of service to the industry.
Exemplary Dedication
Candidate must have 20 years running a towing business in an outstanding and exemplary manner, promoting a positive image of the towing industry and have positive relations with the community, i.e., performing services for the community about and beyond the services for hire. Limit: One inductee per year.
Industry Leadership
Leadership involved with an outstanding project that has had a dynamic and lasting effect on the towing industry. Candidate must have minimum 10 years service to the towing industry.
Professional Achievement
Creating a product or service of any kind that has had a significant and lasting effect on thousands of towing professionals. Candidate Must have a minimum of 10 years to the industry.