Remembering Joe Rinartz

Joe Rinartz passed away unexpectedly early Sunday morning, October 9th while enjoying the Oktoberfest race weekend. He was an avid racing fan, and had been actively involved in the sport almost his entire life. He retired from racing a couple years ago; for the first time in his life taking the proverbial "backseat" to focus on his family and friends. Thursday he cruised down memory lane by participating in the vintage races and was set to race on Sunday as well. Unfortunately, the race on Sunday did not happen. The car was instead driven by a close family friend in memory of Joe.

If you knew Joe, you would be able to recall fondly of his mischievous antics and his incredible sense of humor. Joe was a wizard with vehicles and never failed to offer assistance when anyone was in need of his expertise. He spent almost every Saturday night at the racetrack and could often be found during the week at various race shops working on race cars to get ready for race night. During the off season, he attended numerous racing smokers.

He leaves behind devastated family and friends who are wondering what they will do without his lighthearted personality in their lives. The final checkered flag has fallen for Joe, the last finish line crossed.

Joe, along with the rest of us, were not expecting to lose him so early. Joe had no life insurance. His partner of 15 years and he were in the process of buying a home and were only waiting on paperwork to sign and finalize the deal. This campaign is being started to help the family offset the expenses incurred by Joe's death and his funeral expenses. The family appreciates any and all donations, no matter the amount.

Please keep the Rinartz family in your thoughts and prayers through this extremely difficult time.