AACF Mourns Loss of Founding Member

The Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF) founding member Joe Mittelman has died.

Mittelman, CEO of The Mittelman Group for more than 50 years and a former chairman of the Auto Parts & Accessories Association, co-founded the organization now known as AACF. He was actively involved in AACF board and committee leadership since the nonprofit’s inception.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Mittelman family, and all whose lives he touched,” said Joel Ayres, AACF executive director. “Joe was a wonderful, kind and generous man who loved the aftermarket because he loved the people that make up the industry. He was the sort of man that treated everyone with the greatest respect. He was strong, smart, sincere and funny, and he’ll be dearly missed.”

“Joe dedicated his life to helping others through service, including his service to AACF,” said Lynn Parker, AACF board president. “Because of Joe’s dedication and his continued efforts, thousands of lives have been positively impacted. Joe was much more than our colleague -“ he was our dear friend. He will be deeply missed and will always be remembered.”

Donations in memorial tribute to Mittelman are currently being accepted, with more than $25,000 pledged toward a $100,000 goal. The Joe Mittelman Celebration of Life is scheduled Sept. 23.

Those wishing to contribute to Mittelman’s favorite cause are encouraged to contact Ayres at 916-628-0271 or by emailing him at joel@aftermarketfoundation.org.