AGOURA HILLS, CA (March 29, 2024) —It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Don Henthorn, owner and founder of BendPak. Surrounded by friends and family, Don passed away March 28. Through his guidance, BendPak has grown from a small machine shop into the world’s leading manufacturer of car lifts and automotive shop equipment. Even though he handed over day-to-day management to the current leadership team back in 2022, Don still came in 6 days a week to coach and inspire us.
Prior to running a company, Don enlisted in the U.S. Army at 19 years old. While stationed at a Nike Ajax missile site in Connecticut, he met Virginia Ann “Ginger” Eib, and the two would soon be married after Don was discharged in 1959.
In 1965 Don opened and operated Quality Machine & Associates. QMA quickly gained a reputation as the premier manufacturer specializing in precision machine work. Notable customers include Rocketdyne, Rockwell and Hughes Aircraft.
By the 1970s, Don oversaw the construction of the company’s first new building, a 20,000 square-foot manufacturing facility in Moorpark, California. From there, work would begin on hydraulic tubing benders for muffler shops. The rise in popularity of these benders inspired Don to change the name of his company to BendPak. A few short years later, Don was ready to introduce BendPak’s first four-post lift, and the rest is history.
Today, BendPak has grown into a global powerhouse with facilities around the world. In 2023, BendPak moved its global headquarters to Agoura Hills and work is underway to expand facilities in Mobile, Alabama. BendPak was able to achieve this growth due to Don’s work ethic. For many decades, Don was the first person to arrive at work, typically between 5 and 6 in the morning. When questioned to what he attributes BendPak’s success , Don simply replied, “We outwork everybody.”
"When BendPak started, I was the sole name and voice attached to the company’s product development and operations. Today, BendPak exists beyond the control of just a few sharp minds. The hundreds of employees we hold dear are heard from and appreciated on a daily basis, which is why people continue to want to work here, and it’s why we’ll continue to thrive for generations to come.” – Don Henthorn
Despite working hard his entire life, Don still knew the importance of enjoying time spent with loved ones. Whether it was through golfing, skiing, or enjoying a company picnic, Don was a joy to be around. Often times Don could be found in the shop tinkering and inventing.
Jeff Kritzer, BendPak president and CEO had this to say on Don’s passing. “Don’s visionary leadership and unwavering dedication have been the cornerstone of BendPak’s success. His passion, wisdom, and guidance have left an indelible mark on all of us and the organization. His legacy lives on through the values and principles he instilled in our company. He was not only a leader, but also a mentor, inspiring all of us to strive for excellence and never settle for anything else.”
Don passed away in his home on Thursday, March 28. He is survived by his wife, Ginger; his daughter, Susan; and grandchildren Annika, Reagan, Carson, and Kennedy.
For those wishing to send condolence cards, they can be mailed to BendPak 30440 Agoura Road, Agoura Hills, CA 91301. Information on the memorial service can be found here.
Rest in peace, Don. We’ll never forget you, and thank you for everything.
