Louis J. Fusz, Sr
Chairman
Lou Fusz Automotive Network
Laureate 2006
Lou Fusz, Sr. was born in St. Louis, Missouri, on November 24, 1919. He grew up in a family with four older sisters. When he was ten years-old his mother, Eliza Ring Fusz, died and he became very close to his father, Eugene A. Fusz. He also suffered through the hardships of the Great Depression, all of which made a definite impression on him. Lou graduated from St. Louis University High School in 1937, and then from Georgetown University in 1941. Because war was imminent, he immediately joined the U.S. Coast Guard and served with honor, until being discharged as Chief Boatswain’s Mate when the war ended 4 years later. In the last year of the war, he met his future wife Martha Downard, they were married June 26, 1943, in Louisville, Kentucky. His biggest challenge was trying to earn a living in order to provide for an ever expanding family. Both he and his wife decided they wanted 12 children. In order to accomplish this, he founded The Lou Fusz Motor Company in 1951. This company grew into the Lou Fusz Automotive Network. By treating people fairly and with respect the company became the largest auto dealer in the midwest. The company has not only become known as a sales leader but is also widely recognized for his support of many local charities and educational institutions.
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