SEMINOLE -- For years, commercials told Tampa Bay area residents that they got "Wayne Schmidt With Every Car" at Suncoast Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM.
Now, the longtime dealership says in a news release that its founder passed away Friday (3rd) at age 88.
After a four year stint in the Marines, Schmidt got into the car business at his father-in-law's dealership in New Jersey and later operated Columbus Dodge in Florida before moving to Seminole. It started out as a Chrysler-Plymouth dealership, later adding Jeep and Dodge makes.
Schmidt was recognized twice as the top Chrysler dealer in the nation, and served on Chrysler's executive committee. Schmidt's support of charities included Morton Plant Mease Hospital, Wounded Warriors, and local Little League teams.
He's survived by his wife Joyce,their four children, seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
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