TYSONS, Va. (July 25, 2018) -- Wes Lutz, 2018 chairman of the National Automobile Dealers Association and president of Extreme Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep-Ram in Jackson, Mich., issued the following statement in remembrance of Sergio Marchionne, CEO of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V.:

“NADA is deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing of Sergio Marchionne. He was a force of nature and a true visionary within our industry. Franchised dealers will always be grateful for his unrelenting drive and incredible focus, which not only helped steer one of the world’s most iconic brands through some pretty dark days, but through foresight helped position that brand for success and growth in a changing market. He will leave a lasting legacy, and will be missed by all who had the good fortune to know him.”