Dec. 19, 2011— Cindy Tursi, former executive director of the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of New Jersey (AASP/NJ), died last week, the organization announced Monday. She was 61.
Tursi served AASP/NJ from 1988 through 2003. She is survived by husband Noel Tursi, son Dustin Tursi, granddaughter Summer Tursi, father Henry Novacek, brother Terry Lunger, niece Tera Lunger, and nephew Hutch Novacek.
“There aren’t enough words to describe what she did for the industry and for the association—it would take more of a book than a paragraph,” said Jeff McDowell, president of AASP/NJ. “Through determination, attention to detail and her commitment to wanting us all to be successful, she continually went over and above what was required of her.”
AASP/NJ has had three executive directors since the organization was founded more than 50 years ago. Tursi followed AASP/NJ founder George Threlfall, and was succeeded by Charles Bryant, the organization’s current executive director.
“When I took over as executive director, Cindy was my mentor,” Bryant said. “I remember writing an article that it was a big job to fill those little shoes. Well, she showed me the way. I am sure Cindy will be missed by many, but our wonderful stories and experiences we had with her will remain forever.”
