aj
Longtime marine industry veteran AJ Halavacs passed away June 3 2014, after a courageous battle with leukemia. AJ had been battling the cancer for several years and was making significant progress when he unexpectedly passed away from complications related to his illness. AJ’s career started in May of 1980 at Great Lakes Power Products in Mentor, Ohio. He moved on to Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales formerly EXCEL Marine Mount Clemens, MI in 1988 and started with ZF Marine Propulsion Systems Miramar formerly ZF Industries in Vernon Hills, IL to join their newly established marine business segment. AJ had a true passion for the water and boating. He continued to thrive and advance in the marine industry.
His career legacy will be marked by his longtime contribution with ZF Marine. AJ, an icon of the marine industry, would be instrumental in leading the transmission manufacturer to a period of unprecedented growth and market share gains both in the United States and worldwide. A true sales professional, his contributions from the market and new product development side helped ZF Marine grow into the global leader that they are today. His charismatic personality, persistence, and relentless pursuit to do right by the customer catapulted ZF to a leadership position in the pleasurecraft market and a strong positions in both the commercial and passenger vessel markets. AJ loved the marine industry and fiercely battled his illness as he continued to communicate with customers even during difficult times.
AJ’s greatest legacy was his love and devotion to his family. He was a loving husband to his wife Jane of 38 years and a role model to his three sons Brett, Jeffrey, and Chris. AJ will be remembered as a respected colleague, friend, and caring individual who lived his life the way we all should.
Donations in AJ’s memory can be made to Moffitt Cancer Center: https://eforms.moffitt.org/donation/
