By James Wells

BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND: The electrical industry is mourning the death of former Retravision state chairman and national board member, Dave Knudsen.

Knudsen joined Retravision in 1992 and was a member of the Retravision Queensland (now Retravision Northern) board from 1995 to 2009, including eight years as chairman, and a member of the National Board from 2001 to 2009.

“It is with great sadness that we learnt of Dave’s passing,” said Retravision Queensland chairman, Philip Scarff.

“Dave was an iconic figure within Retravision and in the electrical appliance industry, having spent his entire working life in the industry he had great passion for. His commitment to Retravision through his Committee, Board and Chairmanship roles was indisputable.

“His support and encouragement to fellow Retravision dealers and management was regularly demonstrated, as he was always available to provide the necessary leadership and personal support when it was required.

“Our deepest sympathies go out to Christine and the family, as well as the team of people that worked for Dave over many years.  Dave will be sadly missed by us all, but his memory will live on through the Dave Knudsen Retravision stores that will continue to be owned and operated by his family.”

Energy Development Association of Australia (EDAA) manager John McNaughton remembers Dave as a well-respected rep for Hoover in 1968, before becoming state manager for Festival Stores and then Chandlers state sales manager.

Knudsen left the Chandlers group which was suffering a tumultuous time during its takeover and purchased ‘Club Hardware’ from Garry Shannon at Virginia, and opened the first of a chain of Retravision stores on the north side.

“[Dave] served on the board as chairman of Retravision Queensland and Northern, always in his practical, no nonsense style with the industry at heart. He always had time for a joke and a chat and a strong penchant for golf.

“On behalf of EDAA members and me, we wish condolences to Dave’s family for their sad loss.”

The funeral will be held on Friday 16 July at 11.00am at Pinnaroo Lawn Cemetery , 294 Graham Road, Bridgeman Downs.

Dave Knudsen will be missed by the entire Retravision family.