Richard P. Kughn

[RogerDetroit]

It sad to announce the passing of Richard P. Kughn during the early hours of June 8th. He was 89 years old, pre-deceased by his wife Linda and will be missed by many.

More than anyone else, he is responsible for saving the Packard Proving Grounds. Dick was very active and personally involved in the negotiations to acquire the property from Ford Motor Land Development Co. He did this at a time in his life when he was not in the best of health. Without his leadership the PPG would have been lost to the wrecking ball.

Dick amassed an enviable car collection that, at its peak, numbered over 250 cars. He previously owned the Lionel Train company. He reinvigorated the iconic brand by moving production from a foreign country, brought manufacturing jobs back to the USA and increased quality.

We wish condolences to his family, friends and employees.