Automotive pioneer Bob Attrell dies at 70
Robert (Bob) Attrell, former president of the Toronto Automobile Dealers Association and long-time owner of Attrell Toyota, has died after a battle with cancer.
He was 70.
“My father had a real passion for life,” said son Bob Attrell Jr. “He was a very genuine person and a real family man.”
Attrell had a long and successful career in the local automotive industry spanning 50 years.
He started in the industry as a technician in the 1960s.
In 1968, Attrell began his tenure with Toyota Canada, first as a service representative and then as a sales representative.
From there, Attrell, born in Orillia in 1940, launched the Brampton Toyota franchise at 250 Queen St. W. That was in 1975.
As principal dealer of Attrell Toyota — the franchise moved locations several times under his tenure, first to 243 Queen St. E. and then 247 Queen St. E. — Attrell pursued a strong vision for the auto industry both locally, and in Canada.
He was the founding president of the Canadian Association of Japanese Automotive Dealers and, for a time, was president of the Toronto Automobile Dealers Association.
Over the years, Attrell nurtured his passion for the automotive business— passion that he would pass on to his three sons, John, David and Bob Jr. who have built up the family enterprise.
His sons joined him in this business venture starting with his son John in 1980, then David and finally Bob Jr. His son John became the general manager of Attrell Toyota in 1990 with his son David taking the role of service manger in 1997.
The family acquired the Brampton Attrell Hyundai franchise in 1990, later bought out by his youngest son, Bob Jr., who is now dealer principal/owner of that dealership.
Bob Jr. referred to his father as being a “terrific role model and mentor.”
“He was an icon in the automotive industry,” Bob Jr. said.
But Attrell’s life wasn’t completely dedicated to cars.
Aside from being a devoted husband, married to his wife Hazel for 50 years, Attrell was also a devout Christian. He was member of Bramalea Baptist Church for many years and served on its board of directors.
He also had a passion for car racing and travelled extensively.
Attrell died at Headwaters Hospital in Orangeville on Monday.
He leaves behind four children and nine grandchildren.
A funeral service is scheduled for Fri., Sept. 10, at Bramalea Baptist Church, 9050 Dixie Rd., at 11 a.m.
Internment will follow at the Brampton Memorial Gardens at 10061 Chinguacousy Rd.
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