CLASS RACER FORUM - RIP Jim Kuntz

I wasn't close to Jim but I know he was cut from rare cloth and he will be missed. He left me with a few memories that will stick with me forever.

I first met Jim at Joliet and we went to dinner together in a group. He was a Ford Racing distributor, and I was the first For Racing rep he'd gotten the opportunity to air his grievances (this was not uncommon). He sat right across from me and berated me for most of the dinner. It wasn't the relaxing end of the night I was hoping for but he made excellent points and for the few times he didn't I explained my perspective that he begrudgingly accepted. I instantly liked Jim because he was passionate about his business, loyal to his customers, a straight shooter, and committed to continual improvement.

The next day I was standing by the fence near the starting line, he was standing back by the bleachers wearing a cap, kind of hanging back. I walked up to him and said hello and he sheepishly shook my hand saying, "I'm surprised you're talking to me after what I said to you." I think I just laughed. Maybe he figured he needed to get all his grievances out at dinner expecting that would be the last time we ever spoke!

For years after that Jim and I would say hello and chat when we saw each other. I'd call him at the shop for input on products. He was a good dude and I'm sorry he's gone.