Warren Cornil passed away peacefully on September 6. Warren was always a popular figure at the Convention with his outgoing personality and great story telling ability. After several years in banking in New Mexico and Texas, Warren found his way into the forklift world.
Warren began working with a company that imported reconditioned forklifts in Japan. He sold these units to dealers around the country and as a result made many friends in the industry. He soon moved to Dallas and started his own company specializing in these reconditioned units.
In 1987, Warren started Sunbelt Industrial Trucks (now Sunbelt Material Handling) with his new business partner Bill Rowan. Sunbelt would focus on selling and serving Komatsu Forklifts in the DFW area.
Under Warren’s leadership as CEO, Sunbelt became one of Komatsu’s largest dealers for over 25 years. Sunbelt soon expanded into the Houston market. During this time Sunbelt expanded its product line to include Nissan/Unicarriers and Doosan and soon became distinguished dealers for both those manufacturers.
Always a bigger picture guy, Warren led the way in introducing both the Tailift and Flexi Narrow Aisle forklifts into the North American Market. He earned the distribution rights in NA for both these products and set up dealer networks to market these products. As a result of all his work in the forklift industry he formed many lasting friendships in the industry.
Despite all his success in the forklift industry, many remember Warren for his heart transplant story and for living 16 years post transplant. As usual Warren always got involved. He was very active in the transplant organization working with new patients to overcome their fears. Warren was also instrumental in raising significant funds for the transplant organization.
On October 19, Warren would have been married to his wife Sue for 40 years. Despite all his accomplishments, Warren always found time for his family – Sue, two daughters and several grandchildren. Warren was always happiest when with his family.
Those who knew Warren often referred to him as “one of a kind”. No doubt Warren was a very unique man. He will be missed by all.
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