Martin J. (Marty) Skok Jr. of Elgin Industries died at his home following a brief illness. He was 87.
Skok assumed control of Elgin Industries from his father and company founder Martin J. Skok Sr. in the early 1960s. Over the next 50 years, Skok directed the growth of the company’s manufacturing and distribution operations, product line, portfolio of customers and international prominence. Skok helped move Elgin Industries into a fully integrated, U.S.-based supplier of internal engine and chassis components and a premier manufacturer of push rods and complete valve train packages.
Today’s Elgin Industries customers include Fiat Chrysler, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Harley Davidson, Mack, Navistar and JASPER Engines and Transmissions.
Skok also upheld his father’s professional motorsports legacy by campaigning the Elgin Piston Pin Special in the Indianapolis 500, financially backing the Elgin national Road Race, participating in Mexico’s La Carrera Panamerica, and partnering with Anthony “Andy” Granatelli.
Skok was heavily involved in church, the Elk’s Club and American Legion, and many industry organizations including the Manufacturers Association, Automotive Sales Council, Automotive Engine Rebuilders Association, Production Engine Builders Association and Auto Care Association.
Skok is survived by his wife of 65 years, four children, eight grandchildren and one great grandchild.
