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GMI Sponsor and Shareholder Barry Benek |
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 Warrington, PA August 4, 2008 - Mr Barry Benek, founding shareholder and GMI sponsor lost a prolonged fight with cancer today. He is survived by wife Ruth, daughter Missy and son's Barry Jr. and Christopher as well as two grandchildren. A viewing is set for Thursday August 7 at Fluehr Funeral Home in Newtown and funeral Friday August 8.
Barry was a shareholder of both GMI Formula Car LP's and sponsored the cars periodically during the SCCA regional and nationals over several years culminating in the SCCA National Championship Runoffs. He often attended the Pocono venues and offered his mountain home there to house the teams on several occasions. His culinary ability was tested periodically trackside as well as at team functions and meetings. He was a great cook and enjoyed racing, golf, skiing, fishing and partying.
Barry is certainly the earliest sponsor of any GMI effort when he supported a karting effort of Todd Greisiger in 1991 which endured for several years before the formula cars phase. He was a great father and liked the family aspect of racing as well as the action.
One particular highlight regarding Barry Benek was the design, construction and racing of "barstool racers" in the late 1980's. He made several custom machined parts for two 'racers" including steering components, bearing supports and drive parts from his business, Artcraft Machine Company. In five "barstool race meets" against up to 20 competitors, GMI
GMI entries in the NJMP race September 19-21 will carry Barry Benek memorial livery.
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