It is with a heavy heart that we share former CATA employee and Drive Chicago Radio Host Paul Brian passed away in his home last week.

Paul Brian served as Director of Communications for the Chicago Automobile Trade Association and Chicago Auto Show from 1994 to 2012 and hosted the "Drive Chicago" radio show on WLS-AM Radio for 20 years. He was an honored juror for the North American Car and Truck of the Year Awards (NACTOY), served as president of the Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA), received two Emmy awards, and was inducted into the Legends of Motorsport Guild’s Hall of Fame.

Paul Brian was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army, serving as the Director of the Armed Forces Radio and Television network while stationed in the Panama Canal Zone during Viet Nam in the early 1970s. His love and devotion to the Army lived long after his service to our country. He spent decades serving veterans through philanthropic work and served as a founding member of the Allen J. Lynch Medal of Honor Board of Directors.

In lieu of flowers, his family is asking for donations be given to the Allen J. Lynch Medal of Honor Veterans Foundation in his name as it was another of his passions, to help other soldiers who sacrificed so much.

(Allen J. Lynch Medal of Honor Veterans Foundation provides grants to those who are engaged in providing educational programs, PTSD and direct assistance to veterans. Allen J Lynch Medal of Honor Veterans Foundation (501(3) organization) 6615 Grand Ave Ste B PMB 415, Gurnee, IL, 60031.)