'Les Schwab Legend' John Britton Has Died

Aug. 13, 2024

Former Les Schwab Tire Centers President of Operations John Britton died on Aug. 7. He was 72 years old.

John Robertson, Les Schwab Tires’ current president of store operations, called Britton “an incredible friend, mentor, colleague and Les Schwab legend.”

“John dedicated his life’s work to Les Schwab, pouring his heart and soul into making it — and all of us — the very best we could be,” Robertson said. “Many of us would not be the people we are today without his thoughtful leadership, guidance and support.”

Britton began his Les Schwab Tires career at age 16, working part-time at the store in Klamath Falls, Ore. He retired 50 years later, in 2018, as president and the longest-serving employee in Les Schwab history.

When he retired, Britton shared these words:

“It’s hard to express my profound appreciation to Les and the family for giving me an opportunity to work for this truly remarkable company. As I look back 50 years, what stands out most to me are all the amazing people I’ve had the honor to work with . . . GREAT people dedicated to making this company successful today and into the future.” 

Robertson said, “Every day, as we take great care of our customers, our communities and each other, we honor John’s legacy. So much can be said about him and the imprint he leaves on the company.”