William S. Harley, co-founder of the Harley-Davidson Motor Company, died of heart failure on September 18, 1943 at the age of 62. He was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1880 where he met his business partner, Arthur Davidson. Together, the two founded the Harley-Davidson company in 1903. It grew to become a major force in the motorcycle industry and an American icon. At the time of his death, Harley had been active in the company for more than 40 years and had risen to the position of general manager. His expertise in designing engines was instrumental in Harley-Davidson becoming the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world. He was proud to have employed thousands of workers and to have provided dependable transportation to countless people around the world. Harley was laid to rest with a few close friends and family, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential figures in motorcycling history.