By Chris Thomson
 Gary Biggs passed away Saturday, September 28, in his Cave Creek, Arizona, home. |
 Biggs (left) was honored with several recognitions throughout his career, including the PWA (now CAN) Person of the Year in 1998. |
Industry leader Gary Biggs (76) passed away Saturday, September 28, in his Cave Creek, Arizona, home.
Biggs proudly served in the U.S. Army as a first lieutenant. After that, he set out on his long, colorful career in the automotive industry. Biggs did it all, starting with a position with Shell Oil as a dealer service rep. This was followed by productive stays at Maremont, Rocket Wheels, ET Wheels (Lee Eliminator Group) and eventually working for Joe Hrudka at the Mr. Gasket Company.
Biggs’ career at Mr. Gasket started with the Cragar Wheel division in California. His success in growing the division led to him becoming the vice president in charge of the Cragar Wheels, Exhaust (Cyclone, Blackjack, Thrush) and Off Road (Hickey and Rough Country) division based in Tempe, Arizona. In 1994, Biggs established FlowTech Exhaust. This success didn’t go unnoticed, which led the growing Holley group of companies to acquire FlowTech in 1999.
His passion and successes made his services as an industry consultant much in demand. He did so until 2004, when he was hired by the APC Company to help turn it around. In 2006, Biggs enjoyed a short retirement. Soon afterward, his passion for selling and interacting with people led him into a career in real estate and, eventually, land acquisitions in Northern Arizona.
He was a great mentor to many and enjoyed several great personal relationships while working in the performance aftermarket. It was these relationships that meant the most to him. Biggs was honored with several recognitions throughout his career, including the PWA (now CAN) Person of the Year award in 1998.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years Gretchen, and their son Travis. He loved life and wished to be remembered for who he was. As such, per his wishes, there will be no services.