Leo S. Maas

Leo, commonly known as Lee, was born in Detroit, Michigan, one of 4 children. He was very athletic, quarterback of the Detroit Catholic Central High School football team, an outstanding swimmer and most talented as a catcher in baseball. He served in the Air Force and, shortly after his service to his country ,began a 66 year career in the automotive industry. He represented several brands beginning with Chevrolet at Verhoven Chevrolet in downtown Detroit in 1954. He found his way to Dallas Texas, in 1967 as the General Manager of Rodger Meier Cadillac. He also spent some time running Friendly Chevrolet until he became Dallas Texas’ original dealer for BMW in 1971. Lee was appointed by the BMW Dealers of North America to be the first Dealer Forum Chairman, being the spokesperson and representative for all of the dealers in 1976. He served three years and eventually was nominated and appointed to a second term. He served on many BMW committees, as well as Dallas area dealer advisory panels in the hopes to provide better business practices throughout the industry. His goals were always to be the very best BMW dealer in the country. He acquired other dealerships including Ferrari in Dallas and Porsche, Audi and another BMW dealership in Phoenix, Arizona. He left a huge mark on the automotive world through his dedication to his businesses and the work he did for the dealers with the manufacturers. He was awarded the Time Magazine Dealer of the Year in the late 80’s.

His passion for friendship was equally strong as he was a founding member of Royal Oaks Country Club and a member through the years of the Northwood Club, Bent Tree, Preston Trail Golf Club and Desert Highlands Golf Club in Scottsdale, Arizona. He was always interested in his friends and went above and beyond to make sure new members felt welcomed. He loved to play golf and this allowed him to play some of the greatest courses all over the globe. Being around friends, playing gin and the weekly book club were his true life’s passion.

He met Dianne, his wife of 63 years, in Detroit. They had 3 children, Karen, Eric and Linda and they have 7 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. He was a devoted father and husband and provided great support and advice to his family.

The Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, March 14, 2023, at Christ the King Catholic Church. Interment in Hillcrest Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations to a charity of your choice are greatly appreciated.