The funeral is held for former Harley-Davidson president William H. Davidson at the First Congregational Church of Wauwatosa, 1511 Church Street, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin.
William H. Davidson, son of co-founder, William A. Davidson, grew up immersed in Harley-Davidson culture. He was an avid motorcyclist and won the 1930 Jack Pine Endurance Run in Michigan with the highest score ever posted. That victory earned him the title of AMA National Enduro Champion.
He began working for the company in 1928 on the shop floor, working his way up through the ranks, eventually replacing his uncle, Walter, as president in 1942.
William was at the helm when competition from foreign manufacturers put a strain on the company’s market share. He remained as president after the recreation company AMF purchased the company. AMF’s shitty production strategy saw both quality and sales plummet, leading to Davidson’s resignation in 1973.
"Beginning in the 1920's he rode his motorcycle to work nearly every day, even well into his 70's", said his son, Willie G. Davidson.
Even though he was no longer actively involved with the company, he would see the renewal and great success that H-D enjoyed starting in the late-1980's.
William H. Davidson was inducted into the AMA Hall of Fame in 1999.
Today in motorcycle history proudly supports the National Association for Bikers with a Disability (NABD). www.nabd.org.uk
"Beginning in the 1920's he rode his motorcycle to work nearly every day, even well into his 70's", said his son, Willie G. Davidson.
Even though he was no longer actively involved with the company, he would see the renewal and great success that H-D enjoyed starting in the late-1980's.
Today in motorcycle history proudly supports the National Association for Bikers with a Disability (NABD). www.nabd.org.uk
