Howard Furtak

It all began in late 1973 when I read an article in HotRod 
Magazine about the 1st National Truck-In. It looked like a fun time,
so a few months later I was the proud owner of a 1964 Chevy van.

My first Truck-In was the 1st Midwest International Truck-In held in Michigan 
City, Indiana in May of 1974.

My first National Truck-In was the 2nd Nationals held in Bonner Springs, 
Kansas in July 1974.I have attended every National Truck-In since, 
and have driven to every one.

I joined Midwest Vans Ltd. in March of 1974, and remain an active member today.
I have held the position of Quartermaster, Secretary, Corresponding Secretary, 
co-Editor, Public Relations, Activities Chairman, and Chairman. I was a founding
member of Southwest Chapter in 1974, founded Elmhurst Chapter in 1980, 
and remain the only chairman Elmhurst has ever had.

I am currently an honorary life member and active member of Midwest Vans Ltd, 
Star Trux Vans (Chicago) and Southern Ontario Vans Club (Canada) and a member 
of Gold Coast Vans (Florida)

I am a member of Ontario Federation of Vanners, Florida Van Council, 
Wisconsin Van Council, and NSVA (uk)

I was the Illinois Representative for the NSVA in 1974, 75, and 76, the 
North American Director of NAVA from 1977-1980, and van judging specialist 
for the ISCA from 1976-1980.

I was the Midwest Editor for Vanews Magazine and Van and Truckin News 
Magazine during the hey day of van magazines in the late 70s and early 80s.

I have attended nearly 300 Truck-ins and countless hall parties, rallys, 
and other events, and have been lucky enough to drive my van in all 48 states 
and across the Trans Canada highway from Vancouver to Halifax.
 I was also fortunate to be able to attend Council of Councils in England
 and visit France and Belgium while there.

I have been on The National Truck-in Board since 1985, replacing George 
Kettell, an original member. 

I have attended every Council of Councils meeting but one starting with Cleveland
 in 1986, 
missing only Colorado.

I have owned a 64, 74, and 76 Chev
61, 62, 67, 77, 82, 83, 93, 94, 2004 Ford
69 Dodge van, 
For an article on his current van please .
go here!
I managed a custom van shop near Chicago - Great Lakes Recreational Products
 from 1977 through 2000 It was in our back room and basement that 2% originated,
 and where IBOB was invented.  I am currently driving for a courier service 
in suburban Chicago-getting paid to cruise around in my van all day! 

 I got involved in Vanning for its laid back attitude and the oppurtunity to 
travel inexpensively, and it has turned into much more than that for me. 
My best friends are Vanners, and Vanners are my family. I still enjoy the travel
 and would be at an event every weekend if I could.