It's with great sorrow that I bear this news; Our longtime friend and a mentor to me as well, Rich Fox, passed on Wednesday after his long struggle with cancer. Rich was 78.
Rich was always very kind and helpful to everyone he encountered, and was one of the first who offered his kindness to me about racing at Bonneville. I would visit Rich on my way home from work, we would share stories and he would always impart a little wisdom each time we talked. Without a doubt, Rich was true Hot Rodder, coming up with Motor Modifications and unique combinations that were truly his innovations. He set Records, He went FAST, he did it all.
He worked most of his life as a skilled machinist for United Airlines at the San Francisco Airport Facility (SFO) where a few other bay area hot rodders also worked. He shared many stories with me over the years about aircraft "extra parts" laying around they would use in race motors and cars, applying innovation and skill with each new idea.
In his final days, it was hard to see him decline, yet Bob Dalton and I paid him a final visit the week before he passed. Even in his poor condition and nearing the end of his life, Rich gave us both a tongue lashing for not having our race vehicles ready and let us know to "get it together". Right up to the end, this was his way of saying how much he still wanted to be in the game.
I will miss my friend very much, Godspeed Rich Fox (RF), you will be with us always. --Papi
Richard Fox 1943-2021
