Remebering Tom VanBuren

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our friend and longtime colleague, Tom VanBuren.

Tom was a cornerstone of Kunzman & Associates for more than five decades, beginning his journey with the company in 1975. Over his remarkable career, Tom played an integral role in shaping both our organization and the relationships that define it today. As a Regional Manager, he represented our manufacturers and partners with a level of professionalism, integrity, and consistency that set the standard for our entire team.

Tom began his career after graduating from Albion College, initially working at Ford before joining Kunzman & Associates during its early years. From the outset, it was clear that Tom brought not only strong business instincts, but also a deep sense of trust, independence, and commitment. As the company expanded its territory into Indiana and Illinois, Tom took the lead in building and strengthening those regions, quickly earning the respect and loyalty of every customer he worked with.

Throughout his career, Tom embodied what it means to be a true partner in this industry. He approached his work with thoughtfulness, reliability, and a genuine care for the people around him. He built lasting friendships across the automotive aftermarket and was widely respected for both his knowledge and his character. Those who worked alongside Tom knew him as someone dependable: always steady, always honest, and always focused on the long-term success of the relationships he represented.

At Kunzman & Associates, we are a close-knit team, and Tom’s passing is felt deeply. We will miss his presence, his perspective, and the unwavering integrity he brought to everything he did.

Above all, we extend our deepest sympathies to his wife, Coral, and to his family, friends, and the many colleagues across the industry whose lives he touched. Please keep them in your thoughts during this difficult time.

We also recognize that many of you knew Tom not just as a representative, but as a trusted partner and friend. While we grieve this loss, Kunzman & Associates remains committed to continuing the relationships and standards that Tom helped build over so many years.

Thank you for your support and for being part of the Kunzman & Associates community.