12/13/2021
A true Pioneer. Thank you Carl.
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Carl Horton.
Carl was a true visionary. Much of what we know of ambulance design today started with Carl. Hearse style ambulances were the norm before he started building vehicles himself using a van platform. Horton production #1 is still in our possession after taking it in on trade back in the 1970s. When you look at that vehicle today, knowing what it was replacing in the industry at the time, it’s really amazing to see how advanced his thinking and vision were. The ambulances of today, Type IIs, all-aluminum modular bodies and so much more, were pioneered by Carl. Patient care was adapted and improved based on what he was able to do with vehicle designs and capabilities. Although he exited the business many years ago, his legacy and influence are still felt today.
But, more than that, Carl leaves behind a loving family and many friends and former colleagues who will miss him dearly. Our hearts go out to all who had a personal connection with Carl beyond the name on the building, especially his family. He touched so many lives over the years. He will not be forgotten.
