Mary took over ownership and operation of the W.I. Simonson Mercedes-Benz location after the death of her father William I. Simonson in 1976, at a time when very few women were in the automotive industry. She was recently inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame and was the first recipient of the Pioneer Award from the Women’s International Automotive Association.

After a devastating fire in 1986 of the Mercedes Benz showroom, Mary chose to rebuild its original Spanish Revival style, garnering the dealership recognition from the State of California and the Los Angeles Conservancy. Through Mary’s leadership, the dealership has earned her great respect and a positive influence on the lives of many others.

Mary Simonson Rehwald was born in Dallas Texas; September 5, 1920 came to California at the age of seven with her mother and father – Alma & William I. Simonson. She graduated from Santa Monica High School and attended the University of California.

Mary and her husband of 55 years, John Rehwald were world travelers. Mary had a continuous relationship with all of her Emanon Sorority friends from High School. In 1995 Mary received the Distinguished Alumni Award to honor those graduates of Santa Monica High School who have made substantial contributions in their chosen careers, in service to their communities and who can serve as role models for today’s young people. Mary was a longstanding member of the First Methodist Church in Santa Monica and the Brentwood Presbyterian Church. She was an avid golfer and long time member of the Riviera Country Club and the Springs Club in Rancho Mirage where she was a part time resident. She died November 6, 2002 at her home in Santa Monica with her loving family by her side

Mary is survived by her three children, Judy Rehwald Richards, Francie Rehwald and Bill Rehwald. Son-in-law: Roxy Richards and Daughter-in-law: Carol Rehwald. Grandchildren; Mary Richards Mathews, Jill Richards of Maui, Gray Richards of Leucadia, Minka Marcom-Rehwald, Shana Rehwald, John Rehwald and Emily Rehwald and two Great Grandchildren, Montana Gill and Connor Gill