The National Auto Auction Association said Chuck Stepter passed away on May 11.

NAAA highlighted Stepter was a longtime supporter of the association and served as its general counsel. Stepter also was an NAAA Warren Young, Sr. Scholastic Foundation Fellow and a member of the NAAA Honor Society.

According to a message sent on Monday, Stepter also helped to guide the association through many foundational years, including the creation of the NAAA Foundation and NAAA Services Corporation.

Stepter was born in Dallas on Aug. 29, 1945. He served his country with honor in the U.S. Army, doing two tours of duty in Vietnam in 1968 and 1969.

Stepter was an accomplished attorney and practiced law with Fishback Dominick for 40 years. He won awards for his work as a guardian ad litem while helping children in need of legal representation. He also served as the attorney for Manheim Auto Auctions and the ABC Liquor Co.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Marie Lanneau Stepter of Orlando, Fla.; sister-in-law Kay Lanneau Putnal of Dry Branch, Ga.; and cousin Eugene Stepter of Texas.

In recognition of his giving spirit and all that he did to support the industry, NAAA is making a donation to the NAAA Foundation in Stepter’s memory.

“Chuck is fondly remembered as a giving person,” NAAA said. “He was thoughtful, kind, had a great sense of humor, and was always willing to help those in need. He would often volunteer at soup kitchens to help those less fortunate complete required paperwork. Chuck had a beautiful soul and will be sorely missed by his family and many friends.

“NAAA extends its deepest sympathy to the Stepter family and friends,” the association added.