(Reuters) - Former Fiat Chrysler (FCHA.MI) chief executive Sergio Marchionne, one of the auto industry’s most tenacious and respected auto chiefs, has died, succumbing to complications from surgery.
The carmaker’s controlling family shareholder confirmed news reports of his death on Wednesday, without giving the cause of death or saying when he had died.
Following are some of tributes paid to Marchionne.
Daimler Chief Executive Dieter Zetsche:
“The auto industry has lost a real giant. And many of us have lost a very dear friend: Sergio Marchionne.”
Gary Jones, United Auto Workers President:
“During the industry’s dark days of the recession, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and RAM were at a perilous point. Working with the UAW members, the FCA rebirth was born when many doubted it would come. As in all labor-management relationships, there were clashes and disagreements.”
“And when history looks back at his legacy, despite bumps and bruises along the way, in the end, the sun wasn’t setting when he left the company, the sun was rising. That will long be remembered.”
Chase Carey, Chairman and CEO of Formula 1 motor racing:
“He led with great passion, energy and insight, and inspired all around him. His contributions to Formula 1 are immeasurable. He was also a true friend to all of us and he will be deeply missed.”
Italian President Sergio Mattarella:
“Marchionne wrote an important page in the history of Italian industry. As leader of Fiat he went through years of very deep and radical transformation of markets, production systems, financial strategies, and trade union relations. He has ensured the continuity and the re-launch of the group by building a new combination able to keep up with the competition.”
Bill Ford, executive chairman of Ford Motor Co:
