David Garvin, 71, founder of Camping World, one of the largest suppliers of recreational vehicles and camping gear in the U.S., died at his home in Bowling Green, KY on Saturday, August 30th of an accidental fall from a roof.
Mr. Garvin started Camping World in in 1966 and today the company has more than 100 stores nationwide. He sold the company in 1997. After the sale, he turned his attention to thoroughbred breeding and racing. Garvin was the owner of Bowling Green’s Ironwood Farm which he grew from 300 to 2,000 acres. In addition to the breeding operation, Ironwood Farm produces corn and soybeans. The Garvin family also owns Beech Bend Park and Raceway. He was widely respected in the community due to his efforts to rehabilitate historical bridges and beautify Bowling Green’s riverfront area. Through Camping World’s affiliation with auto racing, Garvin was well known in the NASCAR community.
Click here for a detailed story on Mr. Garvin’s development of Camping World from the Bowling Green Times.
