U-Haul Principal Harry DeShong Jr. Dies
DeShong was responsible for U-Haul vehicle acquisition from GM, Ford, Navistar, Toyota and Chrysler, and was associated with U-Haul since 1964.
Long-time U-Haul principal Harry DeShong Jr. died Thursday, Sept. 13. He was 58.
DeShong was responsible for U-Haul vehicle acquisition from General Motors, Ford, Navistar, Toyota and Chrysler, and was associated with U-Haul since 1964.
DeShong served on the U-Haul Board of Directors and held numerous executive positions in the company. At his passing, DeShong was executive vice president in charge of the U-Haul Technical Center in Tempe, Ariz.
DeShong was a graduate of Arizona State University and a decorated Vietnam veteran with a Silver Star, two Bronze Stars-Oak Leaf Clusters and a Purple Heart.
Industry watchers will remember DeShong from the U-Haul SuperGraphic Program and expansion of the U-Haul Dealership Program.
“Quality product is the backbone of the U-Haul System,” stated U-Haul President and CEO Joe Shoen. “Harry delivered quality product because he attracted and retained outstanding personnel. He was a talent magnet, and motivated everyone to do better and to achieve more. He was a friend as well as colleague and he will be sorely missed.”
DeShong is survived by his wife Patti, daughter Heather, mother Elaine and sisters Dee Freeman and Diane French.
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