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Jim Rathmann Obituary
Son Jimmy Rathmann said in an e-mail message to Indianapolis Motor Speedway officials that his father died at a hospice facility in Melbourne, nine days after having a seizure at his home.
Rathmann, second in the Indy 500 in 1952, '57 and '59, was inducted into the Auto Racing Hall of Fame in 1993 and the Motorsports Hall of Fame in 2007. He also won the 500-mile Race of Two Worlds in 1958 in Monza, Italy.
From 1949 to 1963, Rathmann made 42 IndyCar starts, drove in three NASCAR races and started twice in the Race of Two Worlds, winning seven times.
Born Royal Richard Rathmann, he borrowed the name Jim from his older brother to race underage in the mid-1940s. The name stuck, and his brother later raced as Dick Rathmann.
Rathmann is survived by wife Kay, two sons, two stepsons, five grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Copyright © 2011 The Associated Press
Memories and Condolences
for Jim Rathmann
83 Entries
Jeremy Hancock
February 26, 2020
I knew Mr Rathmann as a young man and even worked out of his dealership with my uncle and his towing service. He always had a smile and a friendly demeanor. I was always fascinated by his racing career and could always get him to tell me a story about it. He will be truly missed.
Harry Simpson
November 23, 2015
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Scott Brenner
October 18, 2012
R.I.P Mr Rathmann, You were loved by many people, Im Glad i had the pleasure of working for you at Melbourne Chevrolet and Palm Bay store for alot of years. You will be Missed!!!
marty pyke
January 31, 2012
Sweet pea sleep well and deep love ya Marty from Riley's. You were one of the best. I will miss you.
Chris Stinecipher
January 22, 2012
What a prankster Jim was. We hunted together in the late 90's and were cleaning deer when I cut myself. Claiming to be a butcher in his early days his cure was for me to soak my hand in bleach. I can still hear him laughing from my reaction of pain. Sorry for your loss Kay.
John Knopf
December 19, 2011
To the Jim Rathmann Family - I was happy to have done business with Jim Rathmann. Jim always had an interesting story about racing or the Space Coast. He had a great outlook on life and with business. God bless Jim and your entire family during this time.
Lee Martines
December 7, 2011
It's so sad to lose another of motorsports's greats. I remember hanging out in Jim's speedshop in Miami in the fifties, and watching my buddies race go-carts that they bought from Jim, while sitting in my car so I could listen on the radio to his great battle with Rodger Ward in 1960. It wasn't until a few month's ago that I actually got to see the 1960 Indy 500 on YouTube. Jim, you will be sorely missed, but not forgotten.
Karen Campbell
December 7, 2011
Dear Rathmann family,
This message comes with deepest sympathy to all of you. I am so sorry for your loss.
Sincerely, Karen (Anthony Basura's daughter)
Rich Savage
December 7, 2011
javascript:vid(0)Heaven....Start your engines....I'm sure my father was the first to greet you. Thoughts are with the Rathmann family.
December 6, 2011
Kay and Rathmann Family,
I was sad to hear about the passing of JR. I enjoyed my time with him and his spirit will live on. He was 'one of kind!' Cutting yourself out of a body cast to race is a feat upon itself! You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Kindest Regards,
Dan Dourney, PT
Irv Kerbel
December 4, 2011
I was shocked and deeply saddened to read of Jim`s death.We go all way the back to the late 1940`s when Jim and Dick came to Chicago to race the hot rods.I was co-pilot with Jim driving the Doane Oldsmobile in the Mexican Road Race in 1953.My condolences to Kaye and the family.
Irv and Violet Kerbel
Wendy
December 2, 2011
Kay and the Rathmann family, My dad and I are so saddened by the passing of Jim. What wonderful times we used to have. God Bless!
Wendy and Bob Perry
December 2, 2011
I am very sad to hear about Mr. Rathman, I was 10 yrs old in 1960 and raced go karts with him in Miami Fla under the GPKCA, visited him in his home in Miami Springs and his sports car shop in South Miami.. My thoughts are with his family.
Harry (pokey) Hull
November 30, 2011
Remember Jim well. I was just another Indiana high schooler who loved the 500. Jim was one of the greats that made it that way. His passing brings back many fond memories at the track. He'll missed but never forgotten. Wayne Sheets, Grasonville MD
Owen Ward Sr.
November 30, 2011
Mr. Rathmann and I were friends for many many years and He was such a Sincere Gentleman and a very Kind Man. He had a great sense of humor and was quite the joker! I never met anyone who knew Jim who didn't love the man. My Condolences to the Rathmann Family. May GOD be with you.
Mike & Kathy Kovacs
November 29, 2011
Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss…our thoughts are with Jim's family during this difficult time.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mike & Kathy Kovacs
Heather Fratena
November 29, 2011
In loving memory.......
Heather & Randy Fratena Jr.
George Lyons
November 29, 2011
Jim's 1963 Indy Watson Roadster is in my garage under restoration to bring it back exact to the appearance of his last Indy competition. I treasure the opportunity to own this historic car driven by one of Indy's greatest. Deepest Sympathy to the family.
Belinda McCoy
November 29, 2011
May your memories hold you close and comfort each of you! So sorry for your loss!
Belinda Stanley McCoy
Jim signing at the NARM Show in May, 2008 w/ Brett Douglas. Jim liked Brett, and Brett liked Jim!
November 29, 2011
louie sater
November 28, 2011
We miss you very much Jim, you allowed my friends and family to be part of your life at the Indy 500,and many other places around this country. The friendship started over 30 years ago and only seems like yesterday.
You an Kay are the best friends any one could have. We are lucky to have met you.
You are now running on the 500 race track in Heaven and all the fans are cheering you on to another Big Win.
Jim Thornberry
November 28, 2011
One of the greats. RIP
Bob&Theresa Steinmetz
November 28, 2011
My prayers and condolences to the entire Rathmann family.May he rest in peace and god bless.He will be missed.
Ed Fleming DC
November 28, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, your family has been a great part of the Melbourne area for years. May the Lord comfort you during this time.
Dennis Watts
November 28, 2011
All the drivers who drove the front engine "Indy Roadsters" were true heroes. I also listened to the 1960 Indy 500 broadcast on the radio.
Jim Rathmann was at the top of the list of racing greats! My condolences to his family.
James Belleville
November 28, 2011
I remember hearing the 1960 Radio Broadcast,and Jim Rathmann winning,so sorry to hear of his passing,Another great Indy 500 loss,Prayers to the Family.
MILO BURGESS
November 27, 2011
I watched Mr Rathmann race a 1949 Ford stock car at Soldiers Field in Chicago in the late '40s and early '50s. His sponsor was Beccu Motors and he had a large golf ball on the roof. May peace be with you.
Curtis Wright
November 27, 2011
We were lucky enough to be there for the Rathman-Roger Ward duel. in 1960 --- We drove to "Indy for 51 years! ENJOYED EVERY TRIP
Chuck and Monique Moore
November 27, 2011
Jim and I were very good friends for a long time, and I even worked for him at Rathman Chevrolet. I will never forget his kindness and enjoyed reminiscing about our racing days. My wife and I want to extend our condolences to his entire family. Rest in peace my friend.
Mistie Vazquez
November 27, 2011
Mr Rathmann was a great man him and Joe drank coffee together in the mornin when Joe worked there... Now they can continue their chit chats together in heaven... RIP.. condolences to the family & friends of a great man!!!
Paul & Jean Melbourne
November 27, 2011
may he rest in peace god bless
November 27, 2011
My condolences to the Rathmann family. May the God of all comfort be with you.
Debbie Finney
November 27, 2011
I had the awesome privilege of working at Jim Rathmann's Chevrolet in 1988-1989 driving the courtesy van for your customers. I remember, when we first met in the showroom, we were enjoying Dale Sr #3 stock car. We were talking together of the upcoming race at Daytona. You were telling me stories of your trips to Indy, getting to drive the pace car. I was totally in awe. God speed Jim, Love to Kate, Jim and Jay.
November 27, 2011
My condolences to the Rathmann family. My late husband was a racer, so I know the ropes and loved the noise. RIP.
Laura Hoffman
November 27, 2011
To the Rathmann Family,
May the Lord hold you in the Palm of his hands and comfort you through this time of great sorrow...
Steve & Debby Allen
November 27, 2011
Kay, Zack & Family, I am so sorry for your loss,you are in our thoughts and Prayers.May God bless and be with you and your family during this time.
Arnold Slaasted Jr.
November 27, 2011
Dear Mrs. Rathmann and family,
So sorry to hear of Jims passing. He and my father were friends during Jim's time in Racine WI. My dad, (Arnie Slaasted Sr.)told a very funny story of a trip they made to California, in the '50's. My dad passed 2 years ago, so I'm betting they're probably racing now.
All the best,
Arnie Slaasted Jr.
Racine WI
Jan Sims
November 27, 2011
JR is at rest now but his name will forever live on in Brevard County....
mark olson
November 27, 2011
To the Rathmanns
I'm so sorry for your loss. Mr. Rathmann was a great inspiration to me as a young motorsports enthusiast; growing up in Indialantic, florida. I used to surf and hangout with Jay in the 70's; and would always be in awe of all the racing history in the home. Mr.Rathmann even got me and my buddy J.T. tickets to the 82 Indy 500. I make my living in racing to this day in part to Mr. Rathmann. My thoughts are with you guys.
November 26, 2011
I was 10 when my dad took me to the Indy Speedway. I was able to meet Mr. Rothmann and several other drivers. Mr. Rothmann made me feel like I was part of the team, he was great with kids. Condolences to the family, we've lost one of the good guys.
t weed
November 26, 2011
I was born in 1961 near Indy. Indy drivers were our sports heros back then. Jim was one of those. It is good to hear that he lived to a ripe old age and was able to enjoy life beyond raceing.
His family is fortunate to have had such a hero. God's speed now.
John& Joyce& Brett Douglas
November 26, 2011
Jim was a dear friend & a true gentleman. We remember the races, the jokes, the laughs, but most of all his kindness. Our hearts & prayers go to Kay & family. May your memories of Jim bring more smiles than tears. We love you. Godspeed Jim.
Freezing fun @ F1 race Indy
John Douglas
November 26, 2011
j, w.
November 26, 2011
May God provide strength and comfort to his family and close friends. Oh Lord, hear my prayer.
Carson Nichol
November 25, 2011
I was graduating from HS in 1960, sick in bed listening to that fabulous race with Jim and Roger. Jim was my hero, saw him run many races at Milwaukee. Such a wonderful day it was, I can still remember thoes last laps. He gave so much to the racing world.
Steve
November 25, 2011
My condolences to the Rathmann family. Jim was also the driver of the pace car in the 1969 Indy race. RIP Jim.
Jerry Harsh
November 25, 2011
Kay, Jimmy and Jay , We are so sorry for your loss, Jim will be greatly missed by everybody that had privilege of getting to know him, and it was a privilege. What a fantastic person. !!!!!!
jerry harsh
November 25, 2011
Jim was a fantastic friend. I was the guy that did all his satellite tv for years and years. Jim loved his television watching ! He became a great friend to myself and my family. Some of my best memories of living in Florida before retiring from the Space Center involved Jim. Knowing Jim and family was a highlight of my life, as anybody who knew Jim would agree. Jim , Rest in Peace
Jerry Harsh, South Bend, In.
November 25, 2011
Gods speed Mr. Rathman,
You will be missed.
Lisa Parson
November 25, 2011
At the end of each life is a legacy of love.. My deepest condolences to the family and friends. As the days and weeks pass and as you return to life routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of God, family and friend James 4:8 Draw close to God and he will draw close to you
November 24, 2011
My deepest condolences to Kay and young Jim. I was a former neighbor when you built your lovely home on Franlyn in Indialantic.
Nick Stein with my deceased wife Margaret
Robin King
November 24, 2011
My Husband has a picture sitting in the exterminator go-cart when he was 11 with Mr. Rathmann by his side. He remembers Mr. Rathmann very fondly and we extend our condolences to the Family and friends.
LR Trotter
November 24, 2011
Sadly another great one has left us, and will surely be missed. God Bless family and friends of R. Richard "Jim" Rathman.
November 24, 2011
jimmy sorry for your loss, j.r. was a great boss jerry oconnell vero beach,fl.
Dave Seyse
November 24, 2011
You were one of my race driver heros when I was a little kid. I still follow the Indy cars, but the drivers and cars were real back then. Gutsy, talented drivers in brutal machines. Sad that Jim Rathmann is gone.
Doreen Reilly-Dunbar
November 24, 2011
Jim Rathmann gave us so many memorable races! We were so blessed to be able to enjoy his talent for Indy car racing. My dad was a local auto racing photographer and although we didn't get to Indy, we'd listen to it on WCTC radio every Memorial Day while we were at Flemington, Nazareth or Allentown speedways. I know Jim is at Heaven's Speedway right now, giving the angels a thrill! I wish his family peace at this sad time.
Paul Bullock
November 24, 2011
I remember Jim from the Syracuse State Fair grounds dirt track days in the 50s. Great battles with Roger Ward there also. Good guy, great driver. Sympathy to the family.
E Campbell
November 24, 2011
So very sorry for your loss. May the God of comfort continue to bring the family peace and strength during this difficult time. Our prayers will continue to be with the family.
mike clements
November 24, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Rathmann family this day. Jim was a good man and a racing Champion. He was instrumental in my families racing activities as his Chevrolet dealership name appeared on the sides on my fathers race cars in NASCAR is the early 60's. I still have my Rathmann Xterminator go kart.
R.I.P Mr Rathmann,
Clif Parker
November 24, 2011
Growing up in the 50's and early 60's it was always a Memorial Day tradition to tune in the radio to the Indy 500. Jim was always one of my favorites and when he won in 1960 I was elated. Jim, please say hi to Bill Vukovich and Sam Hanks for me. To you and your family... God Speed!
Ed & Carla Bickel
November 24, 2011
Jim was one of my heros growing up. My first 500 was 56. A great driver and alway talked to everyone even us KIDS of gasoline alley. Blessings and prayers to the family. The final checkers have flown.
November 24, 2011
NOT MUCH INTO INDY LIKE I WAS IN THE 50'S AND 60'S, BUT I CERTAINLY REMEMBER YOU. NEVER KEPT A SCRAPBOOK LIKE OTHER KIDS, YOUR PICTURE AND ALL THE NEWSPAPER CLIPPINGS WERE THERE. REST IN PEACE. WATCH FOR SPEED LIMITS IN HEAVEN.
Patsy Shearer
November 24, 2011
Thanks to Jim for being one of the first sponsor's of Cape Kennedy Corvette Club. He helped us get our start in the early 60's and some of us are still at it.
November 24, 2011
Tommy Hinnershitz lived here in the Oley Valley, Berks County, in eastern Pennsylvania where I was raised. He also was a championship driver/owner. Tell him hi from all his fans in Oley and I hope you will keep an eye on us race fans. You are free to travel now with no encumbrances.
Gary H. Dryville, Pa.
Rick Briggs
November 24, 2011
Sorry for your loss, Alway sad when A driver passes away. My prays are with you.
November 24, 2011
you and roger ward and a.j. foyt were my favorite i made models of all your cars and had them on my dresser dreaming i could be like you guys god be with you and your family
BC
November 24, 2011
I am sorry for you loss. May the God of comfort who strengthens us in our trials and hardships sustain you at this most difficult time.
2 Cor 1:3,4
Mike Arnold
November 24, 2011
Well Jim now you, Bob Steele and Fred Gay all gone in one year. You will be missed as well. Maybe you can find out what really happen with that Sago Palm now. You were a true Gentelman.
Glenda Ford
November 24, 2011
Dear Rathmann family,
As you draw strength from your joyful times together. May you find comfort in knowing that God is healing the brokenhearted ones and binding up their painful spots. (Psalm 147:3)
Linnel Rutland
November 24, 2011
It`s really unfortunate that the family and friends have this lost..It is a little comforting knowing that Ecclesiastes 9:5 tells us that the dead are concious of nothing and the wages that they have are no more....
Robert Singer
November 24, 2011
Was always fun to watch him race at Indy. So competitive with all the racers, Foyt, Eddie Sachs, Lloyd Ruby, Parnelli Jones, Jim McElreath, Rodgers Ward, Jimmy Clark. Always amoung the top in finishing the race. They were far better drivers than those in todays Indy races.
Thoughts go out to his entire family.
November 24, 2011
Thanks for some great memories. I saw the race at the speedway in 1960 and it was one of the best ever. You were a fierce competitor and always a gentleman on and off the race track. My thoughts and prayers are with your family at their time of loss.
Mike
Dennis Littleton
November 24, 2011
The best Indianapolis 500 ever run, was 1960 which Jim won. A battle between him and Rodger Ward. Those days at Indy was racing at its best. And Jim was the best.
November 24, 2011
Jim Rathman was one of my favorite drivers and he drove my all time favorite car, the Offy Roadster. I can still hear the sounds. The world will miss Jim Rathman.
Christine Markley
November 24, 2011
My parents purchased a brand new home (all of 980 sq ft), on Japonica Dr, two lots off of Hickory St, in Tradewinds in 1956. I was just 6 months old. I remember fondly, Mr Rathmann and his Chevrolet dealership on US 1. The back of his property abutted Hickory St. Mr Rathmann hosted many activities that attracted families. An activity that stands out most is my memory is the 'pinewood' car derby races. My brother and dad carved a car out of a 7" block of wood. The races were a family affair. Unfortunately, as the Apollo space program was winding down, my dad was laid off and his new job took us away from Melbourne in late summer of 1971. Thank you Mr Rathmann for your contributions to our community. My sympathy goes out to his family.
Barbara Ryan
November 24, 2011
Rest in Peace. A name that I remember well when I lived in Melbourne,
kevin rayburn
November 24, 2011
Mr. Rathmann, you are immortal, may your image on the borg warner trophy shine for years to come.
Kenny Cook
November 23, 2011
thanks for the great memories
Mario Salavarrieta
November 23, 2011
Thank you for your contribution to the world of motorsports Jim. One of my prized possessions is a diecast replica of the car you won the Indianapolis 500 with. I wish I could have been there when you did it but I wasn't born yet for three more years. That didn't sway my admiration for you and other drivers like you who lived their dream and inspired us all. Peace be with you and many prayers to your family. Godspeed
Eric Anderson
November 23, 2011
Jim Rathmann will always be a hero to me...Rest in peace Mr. Rathmann!!!
Paul Sofia
November 23, 2011
RIP Jim
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