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MISC: Harry 'Barney' Wimmer, race car restorer, dead at age 87

14 January 2000

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

Text Provided by IMS

Harry M. "Barney" Wimmer, restorer of historic cars at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, died at his hometown of Altoona, Pa., on Dec. 30. He was 87.

Wimmer served as crew chief for driver Elmer George and car owner Mari Hulman George, father and mother, respectively, of Tony George, president of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Wimmer began his racing career as mechanic for car owner-driver Jimmy Wilburn following World War II. He was chief mechanic for driver Jimmy Davies, who finished third in the 1955 Indianapolis 500. His drivers won four national races.

Wimmer retired from being a mechanic to restore antique race and passenger cars for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Foundation Hall of Fame Museum over a 35-year period. He assisted in restoring some 27 antique cars.

Survivors included sisters Anna Bartley and Martha Rodgers.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children, in care of the Indianapolis 500 Shrine Club.

Editors Note: To view hundreds of hot racing photos and art, visit The Racing Photo Museum and the Visions of Speed Art Gallery.