Truckstop leader Chuck Bosselman dies

Chuck Bosselman, the chairman of the Bosselman Companies, which includes Bosselman Travel Centers, died Saturday at the St. Francis Medical Center after a battle with cancer. He was 67.

Bosselman’s father, Fred, founded the first Bosselman truck stop location in 1948. In 1967, Chuck became general manager of the Grand Island Interstate 80 Bosselman Truck Plaza and began expanding the business which now includes various operations in 20 states.

The company now includes the Bosselman Travel Centers, 46 Pump & Pantry convenience stores, 35 Boss Shops, six Grandma Max’s and Max’s Highway Diner restaurants, Sam Bass’ Saloon & Steakhouse, various food courts, one Hampton Inn, six Motel 6 locations, three Pump & Pantry Motels and the Nebraska Danger Indoor Football League team.

Bosselman was named the winner of the NATSO Hall of Fame award and was to receive the honor at the NATSO Show 2012 in Las Vegas this February. The NATSO Hall of Fame recognizes individuals for their notable participation in the association, industry and in their local communities.

“NATSO and the truckstop industry have lost a leader and a friend,” said NATSO president & CEO Lisa Mullings. “Chuck was an innovative thinker whose energy and enthusiasm were a driving force behind his success. Chuck worked tirelessly for the benefit of the entire industry, and we will miss his leadership and his unwavering commitment.”

In Grand Island, Bosselman supported many organizations, including the American Red Cross, the Boys Scouts of America and the Girls Scouts of America. The Bosselman family contributed to a conference and convention center at the Heartland Events Center.

The Bosselman family had just been named the 2011 recipient of the Grand Island Independent’s Community Builder Award, which honors an individual, family or business whose generosity has enriched and improved the community over the years.

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