Loss of another Racer...
10-07-2004, 08:12 PM
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Loss of another Racer...
Sunday, October 3rd, 2004 John Hipwell was in a fatal crash while driving the TFH Madness boat at the IHBA California Finals in Merced, California. At approximately 2:42 pm John was making another attempt to run a world record when his boat went out of control at the finish line. The Merced County Sheriff's office said he was pronounced dead at 2:50 PM. John is survived by his wife Joann and their furry kids. John was also the sole provider for the home. Efforts are being made to raise funds for John's burial and for Joann’s living expenses while she gets all of her and John's affairs in order.
In time of healing I have been told reading notes from others have been a tremendous support. If you wish to drop Joann a donation and a brief note you can send them to Joann Hipwell at 174 Mt. Arlington Blvd. Landing, NJ 07850 I am told there is a trust being set up in John's name at a local bank for on going support to Joann and we will share that information ASAP.
The full IHBA/Merced County Sheriff's investigation is on going but the preliminary report has been released and can be read at "http://IHBA.DragBoatRacing.com"
Funeral arrangements for John are as follows:
Viewing- Friday October 8th, 2-4 pm and 6-9pm
Leber-Lakeside Funeral Home
150 Landing Road
Landing, New Jersey
phone: 973-398-3000
Church/Mass Service- Saturday October 9th, 10 am
Our Lady of the Lake
9 Rooney Rd.
Mt. Arlington, NJ
The family has also requested that in lieu of sending flowers, please make donations.
Our condolences go out to Joann and the rest of John’s family,
Duane B Sims
In time of healing I have been told reading notes from others have been a tremendous support. If you wish to drop Joann a donation and a brief note you can send them to Joann Hipwell at 174 Mt. Arlington Blvd. Landing, NJ 07850 I am told there is a trust being set up in John's name at a local bank for on going support to Joann and we will share that information ASAP.
The full IHBA/Merced County Sheriff's investigation is on going but the preliminary report has been released and can be read at "http://IHBA.DragBoatRacing.com"
Funeral arrangements for John are as follows:
Viewing- Friday October 8th, 2-4 pm and 6-9pm
Leber-Lakeside Funeral Home
150 Landing Road
Landing, New Jersey
phone: 973-398-3000
Church/Mass Service- Saturday October 9th, 10 am
Our Lady of the Lake
9 Rooney Rd.
Mt. Arlington, NJ
The family has also requested that in lieu of sending flowers, please make donations.
Our condolences go out to Joann and the rest of John’s family,
Duane B Sims
10-07-2004, 08:53 PM
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Re: Loss of another Racer...
Very sad... John Hipwell was one hell of a good Top Fuel Hydro racer. I saw him race in High Point, NC and couple of years ago and WOW, what an amazing feat these guys go through. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.
Last edited by Ben@SRP; 10-08-2004 at 06:29 AM.
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10-07-2004, 09:50 PM
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Re: Loss of another Racer...
i have known John for more than 10 years back when he ran a top alcohol boat with a big block Chevy ,once in Tenn. he put a leg on the record but hurt his only motor i was able to help him get it back together so he could run the backup run which he did and set the record john was a true racer and a very good tech. he ran his own shop . i have just learned of this loss on this board this is not a post i wanted to see, rip John you will be missed
rip John you will be missed
