Michael R. Argetsinger, a founder of the International Motor Racing Research Center and an award-winning motorsports author, has died. He was 70.
Argetsinger died Tuesday of cancer at his home in Chicago, according to Glenda Gephart of the research center.
Argetsinger was a member of the steering committee that in 1997 began planning for the Racing Research Center, an archival and research library dedicated to the preservation of the history of motorsports. He was a member of the center's governing council at the time of his death.
"Michael was a wonderful man, friend and passionate supporter of all things motor racing and particularly, Watkins Glen," said former open-wheel driver Bobby Rahal, chairman of the research center's governing council. "He gave his time and energy selflessly in order to advance the IMRRC and its place in the world of motorsports."
Argetsinger was the son of the late Cameron Argetsinger, who started the road-racing tradition at Watkins Glen in 1948 and brought Grand Prix racing to Watkins Glen for 20 years beginning in the early 1960s.
Michael Argetsinger's lifelong passion for the sport and its history was also evident in his talent as the author of five critically acclaimed books on motor racing, including a biography of Mark Donohue. He also raced for nearly 45 years, competing in more than 400 races at 54 different circuits in seven countries, including nine circuits that have hosted World Championship Formula One Grand Prix.
Argetsinger is survived by his wife, Dr. Lee Green. The family has announced that remembrances may be made in his name to the Racing Research Center.
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text credit: © 2015 The Detroit News
