Bob Labonte passes away at 90

Bob Labonte, a former NASCAR team owner and crew chief renowned for shaping the early careers of NASCAR legends Terry and Bobby Labonte, has passed away at the age of 90.

Bobby Labonte took to social media on Tuesday to share the news of his father’s passing:

“This week, Terry and I lost our dad. To many of you who knew him around the garage, you know he was larger than life. To us, he was our dad and also a crew chief, a mentor, our biggest fan, our motivation at times, and our hero. He and our mom dedicated their lives to our racing careers and to our family. We are deeply saddened by the loss of our dad, although we know he is in a far better place. We thank everyone for their support during this difficult time.”

Bob Labonte notably served as crew chief during part of son Terry’s 1981 NASCAR Cup season and in the NASCAR Xfinity Series from 1989 to 1997, overseeing the endeavors of various drivers including Terry and Bobby Labonte, David Green, and Jeff Fuller.

Bob Labonte and his wife Martha had been residents of Trinity, North Carolina, since 1971. He is survived by his wife, their two sons deeply entrenched in racing, four grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

NASCAR issued the following statement in the early hours of Wednesday.

NASCAR extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Bob Labonte, the patriarch of the Labonte family. Bob was a champion owner and crew chief whose guidance helped lead his sons Terry and Bobby into the NASCAR Hall of Fame. He will be missed.