Paul A. Rottinghaus

Elected:           April 5, 2001

Inducted:        August 17, 2001

Born:                January 29, 1952

Paul first entered the industry in 1974 as manager for Zip’s Auto Body of New Hampton, Iowa.  That same year he married the former Margo Lynn Knickrehm in Davenport, Iowa and together they have raised 3 children, Carolyn, Lindsay and David.
Following his graduation from the University of Northern Iowa, Paul took a position with Zip’s Auto Body managing the office and handling administrative affairs.  Within a few short years his responsibilities were expanded to include the parts and service departments.  In 1986, Paul purchased the business renaming it Zip’s Truck Equipment, Inc.  Since that time he has dramatically expanded all departments, growing the firm from 15 to 50 employees with current sales now over $20,000,000 from his first years’ projection of $3,000,000.  Under his leadership, Zip’s Truck Equipment, Inc. has grown to become one of the leading firms in the industry serving the Midwest and beyond with quality towing equipment and service support.  Hallmarks of Paul’s business relationships are Midwestern honesty and fairplay, which has led to a growing list of loyal customers.
Paul Rottinghaus serves various industry associations with distinction including the Iowa Auto Dealers Association and the Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, Nebraska and Wisconsin Towing Associations.  He is also an active member of the Minnesota Service Station Association, the National Truck Body Equipment Association, Iowa Motor Truck Association and the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association.
In terms of community affairs, Paul has served as President of the Parish Council of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and as President of the local school board.  He has been a long time member and supporter of Friends of Towing, serving on the Executive Board and is indeed considered a Friend of Towing in every respect.