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Renowned NASCAR artist Sam Bass dies following kidney illness.

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Sam Bass, whose images earned acclaim as the first officially licensed artist of NASCAR, died Saturday. He was 57.

Denise Bass, his wife, confirmed the artist’s passing. Bass had been battling kidney failure and was in search of a transplant.

“It is with a sad heart that our family shares the news of our loss with the NASCAR community,” Denise Bass wrote. “Sam Bass, a loving husband, father, and inspiration to us all, passed away earlier today. Thank you for your prayers during this very difficult time.”

The sanctioning body of NASCAR said of Bass in a statement: “Though he may have never turned a lap or a wrench, few captured the essence of our sport through his work more than Sam Bass. He was a consistent presence in the NASCAR garage, and his ever-present smile and endearing personality welcomed all. Though we have lost a member of the NASCAR family, his legend will continue in his art – all of which illustrated the greatness of our sport and the talent of a true friend.”

Bass’ work was seen by many at high speed on NASCAR’s circuits, as his designs adorned cars driven by several of the sport’s most prominent drivers. Among those paint schemes was the iconic “Rainbow Warrior” colors that rode with Jeff Gordon’s No. 24 Chevrolet early in his career. Other paint schemes for Gordon’s rides followed. More at;https://m.nascar.com/news-media/2019/02/16/renowned-nascar-artist-sam-bass-dies-following-kidney-illness/

Dr. Robert Hubbard, who made major advances in motorsports safety with the invention of the HANS 1 device, died Tuesday.

Hubbard’s passing was announced on the HANS website, which read: “Our thoughts and prayers go to his family and friends. Bob’s invention truly changed the world of auto racing safety and he was a kind hearted person who would help anyone in need. He will be missed greatly.”

Hubbard’s Head and Neck Support (HANS) system was a breakthrough in minimizing the risk of whip-like head and neck movement in the event of a crash. Hubbard, a professor of biomechanical engineering at Michigan State University, developed the safety restraint after discussions with Jim Downing, his brother-in-law and an accomplished sports-car racer.

“Dr. Robert Hubbard’s contribution to NASCAR safety remains unrivaled,” said John Patalak, NASCAR senior director, safety engineering. “In helping develop the HANS device, Hubbard sparked a safety evolution that continues to this day. His ground-breaking work has elevated driver safety to unprecedented levels. NASCAR extends its deepest condolences to the friends and family of Dr. Hubbard, a giant in motorsports safety.”

NASCAR mandated the use of the HANS device (or the similar Hutchens device) in October 2001. NASCAR drivers showed their appreciation for Hubbard’s work through social media upon learning of his passing.