In Memoriam: Vince Tomlonovic – Leader and Industry Advocate
Vince Tomlonovic, a former president of this Association and committed advocate for the shortline industry, died at his home Wednesday, March 13. He was 75.
Tomlonovic retired late last year from his role as general manager at Hiniker Company, where he worked for 38 years. In his early career, he worked for Massey Ferguson and Dunham-Lehr and served for six years in the Iowa Army National Guard. He held several patents on farm equipment.
Tomlonovic was a mainstay at Association events throughout his career and was elected to the Board of Directors in 1997. He served as president of the Association in 2003 and 2004 and treasurer in 2005 and 2006.
In the 12 years that followed, he served as chairman of the Association’s Dealer Relations Committee. In that role, he pored over proposed legislation and spent hours in conversations in pursuit of the best outcome for shortline manufacturers.
Vernon Schmidt, executive vice president of the Association, said that in an organization “blessed with industry leaders willing to give their time and talent to our Association,” Tomlonovic’s contributions “cannot be overstated.”
“I often referred to Vince as my ‘senior policy advisor’” Schmidt said. “He served as wise counsel, patient advisor, and friend. The industry has lost a leader.”
As is often the case among Association members, friendships form at annual meetings and build into relationships that far surpass three-times-a-year get-togethers. Such was the case with Tomlonovic and Bob Atkinson, who served together on the Board of Directors. Atkinson responded to news of his friend’s death last week.
“Vince was cut from a rare cloth indeed. He was principled and always honest, smart with a big dose of common sense, successful, knowledgeable about our industry, and always willing to do his part and more to help the shortline industry,” Atkinson said. “And, he was my very best friend. He will be missed.”
Association president Nick Jensen also shared his thoughts on Tomlonovic’s legacy: “Vince was an exceptional ambassador for the ¹û¶³´«Ã½ and the shortline equipment industry. The longevity of his service, and the lasting impact it has on our organization, cannot be overstated. A respected colleague and friend, Vince was an exceedingly nice person whose presence always enhanced the enjoyment and productivity of our work.”
Among Tomlonovic’s survivors are his life partner Pam Oster, one brother, and seven sisters.
