It is with a heavy heart that we report the passing of Dave Himes, track operator of Muncie Dragway in Muncie, Indiana and high performance engine builder. Himes and his family did an amazing job of bringing Muncie Dragway from the brink of closure back to a well run, hard hooking, and highly respected facility. His engine building and high performance business Automazing is also highly regarded for the work they have performed for racers both in and outside of the Indiana area.
Himes apparently slipped into a diabetic coma, which ultimately led to his passing. He was 45 years old.
He and his family took over the operation of Muncie Dragway in 2007. The track had been largely neglected and the fortunes of the place looked grim. With strong leadership and a clear vision, he turned the track back into a viable and financially stable facility in just a couple of seasons. The track’s big “re-coming out party” was as a stop on Hot Rod Magazine’s Drag Week event in 2009. The exposure from that event let a lot of people know that the track was back in business and for real. Muncie Dragway has already announced that the 2011 season will be run in Dave’s honor.
Himes is survived by his wife Diane, son Jon, and daughter Katelyn. BangShift sends our thoughts to the family in what has to be a very tough time.
Although it offers small consolation, we cannot seeing more positive memories and feelings shared across the drag racing world and internet as we’ve seen since Dave passed away. He certainly left a large group of friends and family who will work to keep his legacy intact.