• ADVERTISE IN RPM
  • PRIVACY POLICY
  • CONTACT
  • SITEMAP
Wednesday, March 29, 2023
  • Login
RPM Magazine
Advertisement
Trulli
  • HOME
    • EDITOR’S RANT
    • EVENTS
      • RPM EVENTS
      • YELLOW BULLET NATIONALS
    • IN THIS ISSUE
    • INDUSTRY NEWS
    • CONTACT US
    • PRIVACY POLICY
  • READ RPM MAG
  • READ FEATURES
    • FEATURES VIEW ALL
    • FEATURE TECH SHEET
    • AMC
    • DATSUN
    • CHEVY
    • FORD
    • HONDA
    • MOPAR/DODGE/CHRYSLER/PLYMOUTH
    • OLDSMOBILE
    • PONTIAC
    • TRUCKS
    • OTHER BRANDS
  • PROJECTS/BUILDS
    • BRONCO UNTAMED PROJECT – RPM
    • GLENN HUNTER ’56 BEL AIR CHANGE UP
    • COPO CAMARO PROJECT – RPM
    • PACE CAR/RACE CAR PROJECT – RPM
    • PROJECT 4 LUG THUG – RPM
    • RED BULL – SHANNON POOLE REBUILD
    • TRICK OUT YOUR TRUCK
    • WORLD DOMINATION – RPM
  • TECH & PRODUCTS
    • SHOP TALK
    • TECH
    • TOOLS & EQUIPMENT
  • TRUCKS
    • BRONCO UNTAMED PROJECT
    • TRICK OUT YOUR TRUCK
  • VIDEOS
  • RPM WALLPAPER
  • SUBSCRIBE TODAY!
  • HOME
    • EDITOR’S RANT
    • EVENTS
      • RPM EVENTS
      • YELLOW BULLET NATIONALS
    • IN THIS ISSUE
    • INDUSTRY NEWS
    • CONTACT US
    • PRIVACY POLICY
  • READ RPM MAG
  • READ FEATURES
    • FEATURES VIEW ALL
    • FEATURE TECH SHEET
    • AMC
    • DATSUN
    • CHEVY
    • FORD
    • HONDA
    • MOPAR/DODGE/CHRYSLER/PLYMOUTH
    • OLDSMOBILE
    • PONTIAC
    • TRUCKS
    • OTHER BRANDS
  • PROJECTS/BUILDS
    • BRONCO UNTAMED PROJECT – RPM
    • GLENN HUNTER ’56 BEL AIR CHANGE UP
    • COPO CAMARO PROJECT – RPM
    • PACE CAR/RACE CAR PROJECT – RPM
    • PROJECT 4 LUG THUG – RPM
    • RED BULL – SHANNON POOLE REBUILD
    • TRICK OUT YOUR TRUCK
    • WORLD DOMINATION – RPM
  • TECH & PRODUCTS
    • SHOP TALK
    • TECH
    • TOOLS & EQUIPMENT
  • TRUCKS
    • BRONCO UNTAMED PROJECT
    • TRICK OUT YOUR TRUCK
  • VIDEOS
  • RPM WALLPAPER
  • SUBSCRIBE TODAY!
RPM Magazine
Home NEWS

An Icon in Drag Racing has Passed as we say Goodbye to Bill Bader Sr.

TLB by TLB
June 29, 2022
in NEWS
0
NHRA Photo

Photo Courtesy of NHRA

0
SHARES
182
VIEWS
Share on FacebookShare on Twitter https://rpmtrish.tumblr.com/

Rest In Peace Bill, it was a pleasure to have known you.

Story by Mark Hazelwood And Joe Centers Tandem Media Network, Norwalk Reflector, Ohio, Photo Courtesy of NHRA

Jun. 27—NORWALK — Bill Bader Sr., 79, the former longtime owner of Summit Motorsports Park dragstrip, died in an accident near his home on Sunday in northern Idaho.

His son, current track owner Bill Bader Jr., made the announcement late Sunday night.

“It is with a heavy heart that I share the news that this afternoon, my dad was involved in an accident on the mountain he so deeply loved and passed away. I will share more information as it becomes available. Know that my father loved you.”

The news came just hours after the finale of the 15th annual NHRA Summit Racing Nationals held at the famed Norwalk track that Bader Sr. built.

Bader Sr. purchased an inoperable dragstrip named Norwalk Dragway in April of 1974 at the age of 27.

He slowly transformed the track — later named Norwalk Raceway — into the gem it is today. He was the creator of the wildly popular “Night Under Fire” exhibition event, held yearly in August. The annual sold out event will see its 44th edition this season.

A longtime International Hot Rod Association track, Bader Sr. stepped out of his role and handed the reigns off to Bill Jr. in January of 1998.

Bill Sr. moved on to the ownership and management of the IHRA in 1999. He later retired to Idaho, but often came to visit the dragstrip for big-time events.

That included the NHRA Summit Nationals, which began at the Norwalk track in 2007. The transformation of Summit Motorsports Park from its infancy to landing a marquee, national event was often cited as a seminal moment for Bader Sr. and his family.

“We are deeply saddened over the tragic loss of Bill Bader Sr., who built an extraordinary legacy in the sport,” said NHRA President Glen Cromwell. “With an incredible work ethic and a remarkable dedication to hospitality, Bill taught us all important lessons on how to make a race a memorable experience for drag racing fans.

“He turned Summit Racing Equipment Motorsports Park into one of the premier facilities on the NHRA tour, and one that was loved by all racers and NHRA fans. On behalf of everyone at NHRA, we offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Bill Bader Sr.”

Jay Ewell has worked with Bill Sr. and and his son over the years. Ewell is involved with the alcohol sales at Summit Motorsports Park through the Norwalk Lions Club.

“He was a Lions Club friend,” Ewell said. “He gave us the beer booth back in the 1970 or 80s and Bill Jr. kept it going. They are really great friends of the Lions.

“He is famous in the racing circle. He is a famous man and very well respected.”

Ewell saw Bill and his wife, Debbie, over the winter. Ewell and Debbie went to school together.

“I was out there visiting him at Christmas and we sat down and talked for two hours,” Ewell said. “I loved talking to him and listening to his stories.

“He was such a perfectionist. One day I was following him down the track and he stopped, got out a can of spray paint, and painted a rusty weld. The steel gate had a couple of welds on them that were rusty. That’s the kind of person he was.”

Longtime Norwalk Reflector sportswriter Don Hohler worked with Bader Sr. as a public relations man in the early days.

Hohler actually first met Bader while doing a story for the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

“I was covering racing at the time, including SIS (Sandusky International Speedway),” Hohler said. “Norwalk’s George Friend and Morris Van Vlerah were very popular modified car drivers and

Boyd Martin was among many other sportsmen division racers that drove at the track. Bader had just leased the track from Bert Decker and needed the publicity.

“Fast track a number of years later when Bader heard that a drag strip east of Norwalk, one that was growing up in weeds, could be bought for a song and dance. Bill knew absolutely nothing about drag racing other than entries drove in a straight line.”

Hohler said Bader Sr. didn’t hesitate to buy the 50-acre facility. He also needed someone to do public relations, but didn’t have the funds yet to pay one.

“I was at his side for 25 years, getting paid maybe three times a year,” Hohler said. “Wow. Those were tough times. The drag strip was barely holding its own financially. At the end of maybe the second or possibly the third season, he needed money just to stay afloat.

“He came up with the idea of a late season mega race for sportsman driver, door-slammer cars so-to-speak. He called it the Halloween Classic. It turned into the largest car-count event of its kind in the history of the sport and still is.”

Hohler said a number of years later, Bader Sr. moved to another year-saving venture when he started hosting Monster Truck meets across the midwest during the winter months.

“One after another, Bill Bader and his wife, Debbie, hit home runs,” Hohler said. “They were vested at one time in every drag racing body known to man, AHRA, IHRA and finally, NHRA. Bill owned the first two at one time and has the show-pony of NHRA out at the intersection of Routes 18 and 601.

“And he has a son that is a chip off the old block in Bill Jr., calling the shots,” he added. “And if one does not think the family has a dynasty, all they had to do was look at that ‘city’ that showed for the national event over the weekend.”

On Facebook, thousands of comments poured in on the Summit Motorsports Park page. Many expressed tributes and shared memories, such as Jeff Lee, who owns the HammerHead IRS automotive customization shop.

“I thought Bill would live to 100 out of sheer will,” Lee wrote. “Bill was the guy who took a chance on me in the racing industry. My first job away from home. He taught me so much about how to treat customers, how a show is run, to underpromise, overdeliver, never get taken advantage of, never settle for mediocrity and to never forget that we’re in the business of fun.”

Lee recalled a story from the 2005 Night Under Fire event, when legendary driver John Force ran a customized car with Bader’s face on the hood.

“He asked me to drive him home after he made his rounds thanking all the drivers for being there,” Lee said in his post. “Long story short, I ended up in John Force’s motorhome till 4 a.m. listening to some of the greatest drag racing stories ever told by Bill and John and learning their thoughts and philosophies on the sport and its direction. It is a night I’ll never forget and I cherish even more today as it was one of the last times I got to spend any real amount of time with Bill after he left IHRA.

“He was loud and brash and demanding, but was smart and hilarious and cared about you like you were one of his own. He challenged me and really brought me out of my shell and his mentorship has helped me throughout my career. I am better for knowing Bill Bader and thankful for my time with him. I know he will be missed by so many.”

Tags: Bill Bader Sr.IHRANHRASummit Motorsports Park
TLB

TLB

SUBSCRIBE TO RPM
READ THE MARCH ISSUE!
SUBSCRIBE TO RECEIVE THIS ISSUE IN YOUR INBOX

Subscribe to Receive Press Releases


Loading

FEATURES

RPM Mag Releases March 2023 Issue

RPM Mag Releases March 2023 Issue

by TLB
February 25, 2023
0

The March 2023 Issue of RPM Magazine has been released.  Below you can view a Sample copy to see who...

Read the RPM Magazine Full February 2023 Issue

Read the RPM Magazine Full February 2023 Issue

by TLB
February 10, 2023
0

Check out who is in the February 2023 issue of RPM Magazine here.  Subscribe today to receive this copy in...

TERMINATOR – Tommy Bauerlien

TERMINATOR – Tommy Bauerlien

by TLB
February 6, 2023
0

This boosted small block Cobra is ready for action….Cobra branding started back in the 1960s and ran with the Mustang...

TRUCKS AND MORE....!

7 Features You Must Have on Your Truck

7 Features You Must Have on Your Truck

by TLB
January 12, 2023
0

Trucks offer increased capability when it comes to hauling and towing, making them incredibly useful for those who need a...

RPM Magazine Installs Blue Ox Tow Bar System on Project BRONCO UNTAMED

RPM Magazine Installs Blue Ox Tow Bar System on Project BRONCO UNTAMED

by TLB
December 9, 2022
0

The RPM Magazine team has been excited to get to work on our Untamed Bronco - 2022 Ford Bronco Big...

Derringer for 2022 Duramax L5P Now Available!

Derringer for 2022 Duramax L5P Now Available!

by TLB
February 7, 2022
0

Derringer for 2022 Duramax L5P powered 2500/3500 trucks is in stock and ready to ship. The inline tuner adds +81...

NEWS

CLEARSHOT CUSTOMS INSTALLS UPGRADES TO THE RPM MAGAZINE 2022 BRONCO AND THE RESULTS ARE INCREDIBLE!

RPM Magazine Goes On Adventure

by TLB
March 23, 2023
0

RPM Magazine had the opportunity to visit a huge Adventure park to test out the capabilities of the RPM Untamed...

RPM Mag Releases March 2023 Issue

RPM Mag Releases March 2023 Issue

by TLB
February 25, 2023
0

The March 2023 Issue of RPM Magazine has been released.  Below you can view a Sample copy to see who...

NDRL™ will add new classes for 2023

NDRL™ will add new classes for 2023

by TLB
February 21, 2023
0

NDRL™ (Nostalgia Drag Racing League) will add 10.50 & 11.00 indexes to PRO-COMP and PRO-GAS classes for 2023 January 9th,...

PROJECTS/BUILDS

Pace Car Race Car Project

Pace Car Race Car Project

by TLB
January 16, 2023
0

Over the past 22 years, in RPM MAG we have approached our projects and installs differently. We never throw out...

CLEARSHOT CUSTOMS INSTALLS UPGRADES TO THE RPM MAGAZINE 2022 BRONCO AND THE RESULTS ARE INCREDIBLE!

CLEARSHOT CUSTOMS INSTALLS UPGRADES TO THE RPM MAGAZINE 2022 BRONCO AND THE RESULTS ARE INCREDIBLE!

by TLB
January 5, 2023
0

Clearshot Customs installs upgrades to the RPM Magazine 2022 Bronco Big Bend to create the UNTAMED BRONCO and the results...

The JANUARY 2023 Issue of RPM Mag is here!

The JANUARY 2023 Issue of RPM Mag is here!

by TLB
December 23, 2022
0

Read the Sample copy here or subscribe to get the full issue in your inbox! CLICK TO CHECK IT OUT...

EVENTS

The Engine Performance Expo Starts Tomorrow January 13th. Don’t Miss It!

The Engine Performance Expo Starts Tomorrow January 13th. Don’t Miss It!

by TLB
January 12, 2023
0

Streaming live on the Engine Performance Expo YouTube Channel, so you can watch and participate from anywhere you can get YouTube –...

RPM EXTREME 6×3 logo

Message From Houston Raceway General Manager, Seth Angel

by TLB
December 13, 2022
0

The end of an era is on the horizon for Houston Raceway Park. Following our spring 2023 race calendar, we...

Come by the Derale Performance Booth #314 at PRI

Come by the Derale Performance Booth #314 at PRI

by TLB
December 8, 2022
0

Are you headed to Indy for PRI 2022? Make sure to Come by the Derale Performance Booth and let's talk...

Design Engineering Titanium Knit Exhaust Sleeves

Design Engineering Titanium Knit Exhaust Sleeves

by TLB
December 8, 2022
0

Design Engineering Inc.'s long list of proven heat and sound control solutions, includes its popular Titanium Knit Exhaust Sleeves. Designed to protect...

Follow Us On Social Media

RECENT RPM FEATURE WALLPAPERS

RPM Magazine Bronco UNTAMED Project

  • ADVERTISE IN RPM
  • PRIVACY POLICY
  • CONTACT
  • SITEMAP

Copyright © 2022 REVOLUTION PUBLISHING & MEDIA, INC. RIGHTS RESERVED.                               Website D & D by AR Technity

  • HOME
    • EDITOR’S RANT
    • EVENTS
      • RPM EVENTS
      • YELLOW BULLET NATIONALS
    • IN THIS ISSUE
    • INDUSTRY NEWS
    • CONTACT US
    • PRIVACY POLICY
  • READ RPM MAG
  • READ FEATURES
    • FEATURES VIEW ALL
    • FEATURE TECH SHEET
    • AMC
    • DATSUN
    • CHEVY
    • FORD
    • HONDA
    • MOPAR/DODGE/CHRYSLER/PLYMOUTH
    • OLDSMOBILE
    • PONTIAC
    • TRUCKS
    • OTHER BRANDS
  • PROJECTS/BUILDS
    • BRONCO UNTAMED PROJECT – RPM
    • GLENN HUNTER ’56 BEL AIR CHANGE UP
    • COPO CAMARO PROJECT – RPM
    • PACE CAR/RACE CAR PROJECT – RPM
    • PROJECT 4 LUG THUG – RPM
    • RED BULL – SHANNON POOLE REBUILD
    • TRICK OUT YOUR TRUCK
    • WORLD DOMINATION – RPM
  • TECH & PRODUCTS
    • SHOP TALK
    • TECH
    • TOOLS & EQUIPMENT
  • TRUCKS
    • BRONCO UNTAMED PROJECT
    • TRICK OUT YOUR TRUCK
  • VIDEOS
  • RPM WALLPAPER
  • SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

Copyright © 2022 REVOLUTION PUBLISHING & MEDIA, INC. RIGHTS RESERVED.                               Website D & D by AR Technity

Welcome Back!

Login to your account below

Forgotten Password?

Create New Account!

Fill the forms below to register

All fields are required. Log In

Retrieve your password

Please enter your username or email address to reset your password.

Log In
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL cookies.
Do not sell my personal information.
Cookie settingsACCEPT
Manage consent

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
CookieDurationDescription
cookielawinfo-checbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytics
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
Others
Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
SAVE & ACCEPT
Please wait...

Subscribe to our newsletter

Want to be notified when our article is published? Enter your email address and name below to be the first to know.
SIGN UP FOR NEWSLETTER NOW