Remembering Frank Slocum

Frank was a prominent figure in the automotive aftermarket for several decades. Frank was a fixture at Raybestos, where his leadership helped numerous businesses prosper. Even after his retirement from the company, he remained a respected voice in the industry, often providing consulting to firms specializing in friction materials. He is remembered by colleagues as a mentor who was “always ready with a helpful opinion” for business partners, contributing significantly to the development of early automotive test equipment.

Before his corporate career, Frank served as an Army pilot during the Vietnam War, flying AC-47 “Spooky” gunships to provide critical air support for ground forces. His bravery in combat earned him both the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. In 2024, he shared these experiences with the public through his book, Seven Names Off The Wall, a collection of memories from his service.

Following his career at Raybestos, Frank moved to Florida, where he spent his retirement years. He was known for his passions outside of work, which included being an active musician and an avid golfer.

Frank was preceded in death by his wife, Cheryl. He is survived by his three daughters, Courtney, Whitney, and Kyleigh.

Expressions of condolence and tribute have been shared across the transmission and automotive aftermarket communities, honoring a leader whose spirit and expertise left a lasting mark on the industry.