Industry veteran passes away
GURNEE, Ill. – Boating Industry sales veteran Chet Karstaedt of Sheboygan, Wis., died of a massive stroke earlier this year, the Jerry Martin Co. has reported in a recent release.
Born Oct. 29, 1929, Karstaedt’s career focused on boat sales. He was one of the best-known independent sales representatives in the business, having served hundreds of the most successful marine retailers in both the U.S. and Canada.
His first major industry career move was to start Span America Boat Co. in the late 1950s. Among his creative contributions was the development of the first bowrider runabout on the market, with seating in front of the windshield.
Karstaedt played a major role in the development of the Regal Boat dealer organization, when Paul Kuck started Regal, according to the press release. He also helped other manufacturers and many dealers to retail success with his solid ideas on retailing. His basic belief was protected territories for dealers with the vision to build.
Karstaedt is survived by his wife Gloria and 4 children, including his son Brad, who was associated in his father’s business for 20 years.
