I am sorry to report that I just received the following email from Mike Thompson of Sport Air Racing League:
Racers,
I am sad to inform you all that Bob Axsom, Race 71 was found dead in his home in Farmington, AR this morning.
I received an email from his friend Charlie Heathco, and we then talked on the phone.
Charlie was checking on Bob after having not heard from him and not having his calls answered... and a neighbor told him the news.
The authorities in his home town are trying to contact a son Bob had from a previous marriage.
Bob was an inspiration us all, and to many RV builders and pilots who do not race. He was constantly chasing perfection, even as it bobbed and weaved elusively - but that didn't stop his pursuit.
Bob was to be inducted into the Sport Air Racing Hall Of Fame at the Rocket Race for this very reason, among others.
He gave race briefers fits, but only as part of the chase.
Bob was a reclusive fellow - but I still counted him a friend, and will miss him.
Bob Axsom, Gone West, 29 October, 2013.
- Mike
Racers,
I am sad to inform you all that Bob Axsom, Race 71 was found dead in his home in Farmington, AR this morning.
I received an email from his friend Charlie Heathco, and we then talked on the phone.
Charlie was checking on Bob after having not heard from him and not having his calls answered... and a neighbor told him the news.
The authorities in his home town are trying to contact a son Bob had from a previous marriage.
Bob was an inspiration us all, and to many RV builders and pilots who do not race. He was constantly chasing perfection, even as it bobbed and weaved elusively - but that didn't stop his pursuit.
Bob was to be inducted into the Sport Air Racing Hall Of Fame at the Rocket Race for this very reason, among others.
He gave race briefers fits, but only as part of the chase.
Bob was a reclusive fellow - but I still counted him a friend, and will miss him.
Bob Axsom, Gone West, 29 October, 2013.
- Mike