It is impossible to overstate what Danny’s legacy means to KADA, as he played such a pivotal role in its growth and direction for decades. Having most recently served as Kentucky’s NADA director, Danny served KADA in just about every capacity, from board member to committee leader to officer to his service as chair in 2012. He was Kentucky’s TIME Dealer of the Year nominee in 1999 and served on the NADA Board of Directors for many years.
Danny’s career in the auto industry began in 1973 at North City Ford in Madisonville, Kentucky, following his service in the United States Army as a sergeant, paratrooper and expert marksman. In his 52 years in the automotive business, Danny has been a role model to dealers across the commonwealth. His professional success includes establishing and building an automotive group with stores throughout Western and South Central Kentucky, and franchises with Ford, Lincoln, Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick, GMC and Toyota. His status as an icon in the industry is cemented in the brand that he has built, with Renshaw Automotive as a major player in the automotive space and establishing hundreds of jobs in the commonwealth.
Danny’s commitment to serving the community is nothing short of remarkable. Following the passing of his beloved wife Vickie in 2020, Danny helped launch the Vickie Renshaw Foundation in her honor to continue her legacy of enhancing the quality of life for residents of South Central and Western Kentucky through support of children and families, education, arts and culture. Danny has also served his community through service on the board of directors for the Western Kentucky University Foundation, First United Bank and Big Brothers/Big Sisters, among others. Of course, the accomplishments of which Danny has always been the most proud are his three children and his grandchildren.
Danny was an incredible dealer and businessman. But he was an even better father, grandfather, friend and person. No one ever felt like a stranger in Danny’s presence, because his warm and welcoming nature made them feel immediately at ease. He was a mentor to countless men and women in our industry, including many more than he ever knew. And while his kindness and generosity would radiate from him, his drive and fighting spirit are the stuff of legend. He overcame obstacles that would be insurmountable for most, and though his faith and determination continued to fight with dignity in a way that is an inspiration to us all. Now, as he joins his beloved Vickie in heaven, we hope that his family and friends feel our prayers for comfort and peace.
Like you, we are devastated by the loss of this legend to both the industry and our association. We will deeply miss him.
