Kevin Fitzgerald, one of the engine remanufacturing industry’s old guard, died April 12 at the age of 60.
Born June 1, 1957, Kevin took his first and only full-time job as an inexperienced 17 year old at Parnes Rotary Engineering rebuilding Mazda engines in December of 1974, ultimately turning that job into a career spanning more than 43 years. As the company grew and branched out into traditional import engines as Parnes Engines, Kevin kept sharpening his skills as a machinist and ultimately entered the ranks of a master. The company got involved rebuilding remanufacturing equipment such as crank and cam grinders and boring bars as well as other equipment and Kevin mastered this as well.
As the company transitioned into ATK North America as an importer, manufacturer and distributor of remanufactured products, Kevin got involved in quality control and cataloging. “His mind was like a vault of casting numbers, specifications and engine configurations ranging as far back as the ’50s, eventually becoming the walking encyclopedia he was known for up till the time of his passing,” said Marc Parnes.
Kevin spent the rest of his career as Manager of U.S. Remanufacturing and Engineering at LKQ’s Remanufacturing Division, supporting the growth of what is now one of the largest powertrain remanufacturers in North America.
In addition to Kevin’s accomplishments on the manufacturing side, he also sat on the Board of Directors for the Production Engine Remanufacturers Association (PERA) from 2000 through 2004.
Through his tenure in the industry, Kevin maintained a special openness, freely sharing his vast experience and knowledge with anyone who asked. He nurtured many close relationships within our industry over the past 43 years.
In addition to a mourning group of industry friends, Kevin leaves behind his wife Tracie, daughters Meghan, Colleen and son Cory who will miss him most.
