Robert E. Schatzman, Jr.

Robert E Schatzman Jr. was born Sept 23^rd in Saint Petersburg; FL. Robert was a devoted family man and together with his wife Stephanie has three sons Robert, Peter and Jaeden whom he was fully enjoyed with. In 1966 Robert began his dedication and career with the automotive service industry and AAA Auto Club South Florida where he would later rise to become the Senior Vice President of Automotive Services.

Over his 46 productive years of service to the industry Ed left a lasting mark on thousands of employees and towing industry professionals with his warmth and caring that put service to others above himself. Ed was actively involved in the industry and worked to foster relationships with numerous towing associations on behalf of AAA. He was a strong supporter of the Florida Independent Towing and Recovery Association, Professional Wrecker Operators of FL, the TRAA and the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum. Ed was a strong proponent of legislation that enhanced the professionalism of operators and protected the consumers alike. Under his leadership and influence Ed was instrumental in introducing financing programs with tower friendly rates and payment methods so tow operators could easily afford capital equipment purchases. Ed’s caring and compassion for the industry led him to strongly support the Survivor Fund and wall of the Fallen.

Ed was truly a community man and served as Scout or Scout Leader for the Boy Scouts of America for the past 53 years earning their highest national honor the Silver Beaver Award and was honored by the West Central Florida Council with their Distinguished Citizen Award. Ed served his country as a member of the US Army reserves, was a frequent blood donor, strong supporter of the United Way, Past President of the Police Athletic League, and led the initiative to create and form the Methodist Town Neighborhood Association to be recognized by the city of St. Petersburg, Florida as an historic neighborhood landmark in the community he worked.

With commitment to the industry as well as to the community Ed is the model of what the ITRHFM looks to in candidates for inductment. His lifetime of giving to the automotive services, community and his family and others was second to none. Ed passed on far too early on May 21, 2011 however his legacy and marks of achievement will remain in place forever for all of us to acknowledge and reach for in goals.