07/09/2026
An industry icon…RIP George
REMEMBERING GEORGE W. SZTYKIEL
George W. Sztykiel, pioneering engineer and founding force behind Spartan Motors, passed away earlier this week leaving behind a legacy that reshaped the fire apparatus industry. Born in 1929 in Poland, George survived the hardships of wartime occupation before immigrating to the United States, where he built a remarkable career defined by innovation, resilience, and leadership.
George spent 19 years at Chrysler as an engineer before joining Diamond Reo Trucks. When Diamond Reo declared bankruptcy in 1975, he and three fellow engineers—Bill Foster, Jerry Geary, and John Knox—joined with Form Rite’s Charles McManamey to found Spartan Motors. Their first fire truck chassis, built in a commercial garage and sold to FMC in early 1976, marked the beginning of a company that would become a cornerstone of the emergency vehicle industry.
As President, Chairman of the Board, and CEO, George led Spartan Motors with a philosophy rooted in simplicity, frugality, and engineering excellence. Under his guidance, Spartan became known for its wide, roomy cabs, efficient manufacturing processes, and groundbreaking designs that set new standards for firefighter safety and apparatus performance. Even after passing day to day responsibilities to his son, John Sztykiel, George remained an active mentor and guiding presence within the company.
“George was an extraordinary visionary whose leadership helped shape the modern fire apparatus industry,” said Mike Virnig, President of the Terex Specialty Vehicles Segment. “His relentless commitment to engineering excellence and his unwavering focus on firefighter safety set a standard for the industry. George wasn’t just a leader; he was a steady source of wisdom, humility, and encouragement. I am profoundly grateful for the guidance and friendship he shared throughout the years. His legacy will endure in every chassis built, every innovation inspired, and every firefighter whose life is made safer because of his work.”
