Bluegrass Wrecker Donates Custom Service Truck to Towing Museum
The International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum announced that a fully outfitted 2025 International service truck has been donated to headline its October fundraising auction. The gift was made by Bluegrass Wrecker Sales on behalf of Gina Johns in memory of her late husband, Irvin Johns of Suburban Towing — a respected figure in the towing and recovery industry who will be inducted posthumously into the Museum’s Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2026 the following evening.
The truck will sell at no reserve, with proceeds split equally between the Museum’s general operations and the Survivor Fund, which supports the families of towing and recovery professionals who have lost their lives in the line of service.
Built on a 2025 International MV chassis with a Cummins diesel engine and Allison automatic transmission, the truck carries a Zip’s 108″ Road Service Heavy-Duty Smart Body and is equipped for heavy-duty roadside and fleet service. Its build includes onboard welding and air power, hydraulic power take-off, a complete tire-service package, fuel transfer, jump-start capability, and a comprehensive hand-tool and recovery kit. Scene-safety equipment is a highlight, featuring a SafeAll Traffic Commander message board and arrow stick, Whelen warning lights, scene lighting, and a rear-vision camera system.
In Honor of Irvin Owen Johns (1944–2024)
This special auction donation is made in loving memory of Irvin Owen Johns, an extraordinary leader, entrepreneur, racer, mentor, and friend whose influence on the towing industry continues to be felt throughout the nation.
Born in Louisville, Kentucky, on February 5, 1944, Irvin dedicated his life to hard work, innovation, and service. In 1969, with a single used wrecker and an unwavering vision, he founded Suburban Wrecker Service. Through determination, integrity, and a commitment to excellence, he built the company into one of the largest and most respected towing and recovery operations in the country. His leadership, industry knowledge, and passion for the profession helped set new standards for towing and recovery services and inspired generations of operators.
Beyond his business accomplishments, Irvin was a towering figure in motorsports. From drag racing and truck pulling to NHRA competition, he earned national recognition for both his achievements and his sportsmanship. In 2023, at age 79, he became the oldest NHRA national event winner in history, a record he later surpassed himself. His racing success reflected the same determination and perseverance that defined his life.
Those who knew Irvin remember not only his accomplishments, but also his generosity, willingness to help others, and deep devotion to his family, friends, employees, and fellow competitors. Whether at the racetrack, in the towing yard, or within the industry he loved, he was always ready to lend a hand, share his knowledge, and encourage others to succeed.
Irvin passed away on November 14, 2024, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of leadership, innovation, and service. His contributions helped shape the modern towing industry, and his example continues to inspire those who follow in his tire tracks.
“We are honored to make this donation to the International Towing & Recovery Museum’s Annual Fundraising Auction in memory of Irvin Johns – a true pioneer, champion, and ambassador of the towing profession,” said Gina Johns, wife and business partner.
About the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame & Museum
The International Towing and Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum, located in Chattanooga, TN, houses an array of displays and exhibits showcasing the history of towing and recovery. The Museum is home to the Wall of the Fallen, a monument honoring towing operators who have lost their lives in the line of service, and recognizes distinguished professionals through its Hall of Fame. Learn more about the Museum, the Survivor Fund, and the Wall of the Fallen at towingmuseum.com.
The Survivor Fund is managed by the International Towing and Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum, based in Chattanooga, TN. It was founded in 2005 to offer financial support to families who lost a loved one in the line of service within the industry. Since its founding, the Survivor Fund has assisted hundreds of families in their time of need due to tragic accidents.