A Total Loss

In our industry, when someone says “it’s a total loss,” we assume they’re referring to a vehicle. Last week I learned of the passing of a tower and I thought, what a total loss for our industry.

Bill Tomlinson is from the small town of Ashland, Wis., located at the farthest northern tip of the state near Lake Superior. He was the owner of Tomlinson, Inc. for 60 years, and to say towing was his life would be spot-on.

His passion for the betterment of the towing industry was evident in his many accomplishments. Bill was a charter member of the Wisconsin Towing Association (WTA) and the Towing & Recovery Association of America (TRAA). Education and training were of the upmost importance to Bill. He was on the WTA board and involved in many demonstrations and programs with the association, but he was also on the Education and Training Board, Special Education Committee and the Legislative Committee. He was also chairman of the Truck and Equipment Specification Committee for TRAA, and chairman of the Council of State Towing Associations.

He was inducted into the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame, and was a charter member of Friends of Towing.

Bill was admired across the country for his legacy of dedication, and setting an example for others in the industry to help guide them in their future.

His company did not have a general manager, dispatchers or 20 employees, or 50 trucks. He and his wife Barb were passionate about their business and helping others, and together were involved to make a difference.

While Bill had a great influence on many aspects of this industry — education, training and involvement — I believe his character and reputation for the life he led will be remembered as well, along with his big smile and his “stories” of course.

Rest in peace Bill, and while you will be greatly missed, you will not be forgotten.