Michael Argetsinger, a founder of the International Motor Racing Research Center and an award-winning motorsports author, died July 7 at his home in Chicago at the age of 70.

Argetsinger was a member of the steering committee that in 1997 began planning for the Racing Research Center, an archival and research library dedicated to the preservation of the history of motorsports. He was a member of the Center’s Governing Council.

Argetsinger died of cancer at his home in Chicago, according to a spokesperson at the research center. “Michael was the Center’s core. His enduring commitment was the foundation of our success,” said J. C. Argetsinger, IMRRC president and Michael’s brother.

“He was always developing ideas to enhance the center’s standing in the motorsports community and to offer our users a better experience. Whether it was seeking out an historically significant car for display or inviting a prominent speaker for an afternoon talk, Michael knew just the right thing to do for the Center. We will all miss him: the staff, the Council, our supporters.”

Argetsinger worked with race drivers, organizers, scholars and enthusiasts, as well as with community members and the international press, to help create a world-class facility. He also organized and implemented the popular speaking series, drawing national and international audiences of motorsport aficionados.

Source: Motorsports author Michael Argetsinger dies at 70 | Autoweek