BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Mich. (AP) - American Axle & Manufacturing co-founder and board chair Richard Dauch has died. He was 71.
The Oakland County medical examiner's office says Dauch died Friday of cancer at his Bloomfield Hills home.
A statement on the Detroit-based auto supplier's website reads: "Our thoughts and prayers are with Dick's family and friends."
Dauch joined General Motors in 1964 after graduating from Purdue University with a bachelor's degree in industrial management and science. He later served as group vice president of manufacturing operations with Volkswagen of America.
Dauch also was executive vice president of worldwide manufacturing for Chrysler.
He co-founded American Axle in 1994 after teaming with two investors on the purchase of GM's axle, forge and driveshaft driveline assets.
He's survived by his wife, Sandy; four children and 16 grandchildren.
