Died 12 September 2011 | ||
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Kurt Ziebart (27 July 1920-12 September 2011 (aged 91)) is best known for inventing the rustproofing process for automobiles.
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Early years
Ziebart was born on July 27, 1920 in West Prussia, Germany, before it became part of Poland. He served in the German Army during World War II. After the war, Ziebart became an auto mechanic before coming to the United States in 1953. He landed in Detroit, where he worked at a Packard factory outlet that housed several auto dealerships.
Rustproofing
It was while working in a Detroit body shop that Ziebart saw the effects of rust and began looking for a way to protect cars against it. That is when he developed the process to rust proof automobiles. The process is often called "Ziebart-ing" or "Ziebart-ed", the generic term for rustproofing.
He founded the famous Ziebart aftermarket business, and the first shop opened in 1961 in Detroit on Harper Avenue.
Later years
In 1963, Kurt Ziebart sold his rustproofing company to an investor group. He also sold the rights to the name Ziebart which he registered with the company's trademark, a helmet and shield design. In addition, he sold the rights to the exclusive tooling designed by Ziebart.
Death
Kurt Ziebart died at his home Williamsburg, Michigan on September 12, 2011. He was 91. No cause was given.