In Loving Memory of Ed Cushman – A Friend, Mentor and Pillar of our Automotive Family

Many in our NWACA family knew Ed not only as a respected shop owner and industry advocate, but as a man whose life’s mission was simple and powerful: love people first. Ed believed that if you take care of people, everything else will follow – in business, in family, and in life. He lived that belief every single day.

Ed spent most of his adult life in Spokane, Washington, where he built C&H Foreign Automotive Repair, a shop known far beyond its walls for exceptional customer care, ethical business practices, and genuine integrity. Under Ed’s leadership, C&H became a model of what an independent repair shop could be. In 2017, he proudly passed the torch to his son Scott, knowing the mission would continue.

His dedication to improving the automotive industry extended well beyond his own shop. Ed served in numerous leadership roles committed to advancing our industry. He served on the Automotive Services Association (ASA) National Board, as well as at the local and state levels – now known as NWACA. Ed also served as Chairman of the Automotive Management Institute (AMI), helping guide leadership education and business excellence across the country. Even after retirement, he continued coaching shop owners – encouraging them to care better for their customers, their teams, and themselves. Ed’s influence quietly shaped countless businesses and careers, leaving a legacy that will live on in our industry for years to come.

Ed also had a deep passion for education and workforce development. He believed strongly in investing in the next generation of technicians and shop leaders. Ed was an advocate and sponsor of the original ITEC – the Industry Technician Education Coalition – working alongside other dedicated members to strengthen technical training and elevate education within our industry. As NWACA’s educational programs evolved, Ed continued that passion as a supporter and champion of NWACA’s iTAC Apprenticeship Program, recognizing how vital mentorship, training, and opportunity are to the future of automotive service. His encouragement, insight, and belief in growing talent from within helped inspire the mission we carry forward today.

But above all else, Ed loved people. He was a devoted husband to his wife Cindy of 53 years, a loving father to Jeremy, Scott, and Brad, and a proud “Papa” to Gavin and Reegan. He was the kind of man who hugged often, listened deeply, and showed love through action.

Many will also remember Ed’s warm spirit outside the shop- hunting trips with lifelong friends, Saturdays at the gun club volunteering behind the scenes, peanut brittle and Washington apples gifted to grateful farmers, and stories shared around a range or a dinner table. Everywhere he went, Ed left people feeling seen, valued, and cared for.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Billie, and his brother-in-law Fred. He is survived by his beloved wife Cindy, his sons and daughters-in-law, grandchildren, siblings, and many nieces, nephews, friends, and colleagues – including countless members of our extended automotive family.

Ed may you now fly with the angels.