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BORN
1956
DIED
2019
Frederick Wetzel Obituary
Wetzel
Jan. 18, 1956 - July 28, 2019
MOORESVILLE, NC - Frederick “Rick” Wetzel, age 63, passed away at home in Mooresville NC.
Rick had a very distinguished career in both Indy cars and NASCAR. He joined Hendrick Motorsports in 1988.
He was nicknamed “Champ” by the racing community for all of his numerous accomplishments. Rick was the only engine builder to win the Indianapolis 500, Daytona 500, Brickyard 400 twice, and the CocaCola 600. Rick won the prestigious Clevite Engine Builder of the Year in 1989 and 2001, the Hendrick Award of Excellence, along with many other motorsport awards.
Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick Wetzel and Loretta Wetzel Mulcaire. He is survived by his wife Lori, sisters Mary Gaye Wetzel and Cyndy (Ralph) Andrews, aunt Pat Pauszek, numerous cousins, and his most cherished dogs, “Champ” and “Sister.”
A memorial service will be held at a later date in North Carolina.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Huntington's Disease Society of America, New York, NY.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Frederick Wetzel
4 Entries
Ellen Gentry
August 6, 2019
Gaye and family... So sorry for your loss~
Prayers for the family.
August 5, 2019
I was just thinking of Rick over the weekend. Our mothers were best of friends, and as a result, we were childhood friends. I lost track of him after he started his stellar career. My condolences to the family during this difficult time. Greg Fahey
Tom Bucher
August 4, 2019
I will always remember Rick. I gave him his first job in High School. I will always remember that he did not even know how to change a oil filter on a car when He started. He even influenced both of my Sons that Hockey was the game. Both of My boys went on to be stars at Riley High School where he played. A great guy a superman in my thoughts Forever. Our prayers and prayers are with You.
Myra Nash
August 4, 2019
My prayers and thoughts are with you!
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