Racing World Remembers Local Man
Ron Hutter, who built a racing empire with a reputation for its engine rebuilds and modifications, a pioneer who put stock car driver Dale Earnhardt Jr. on the map, passed away Oct. 17. He was 80.
Ron Hutter, who built a racing empire with a reputation for its engine rebuilds and modifications, a pioneer who put stock car driver Dale Earnhardt Jr. on the map, passed away Oct. 17. He was 80.
With his sons Matt and Trevor, Hutter opened Hunter Performance in 2003 on eight acres in Chardon.
Trevor began building motors with his father at Hutter Racing Engines during their 1998-99 championship years.
Trevor continued to grow his skills as he piloted for J7J Racing, consulted, and became an innovator, as well as a talented and much sought-after dyno technician.
Matt made a name for himself as a driver in the All-Pro, ARCA and Busch series and later became a pit crew member for several teams, with his longest stint at Phoenix Racing before heading back north to work in the family business.
Matt specializes in custom fabrication and has receive multiple accolades for his remarkable welding techniques.
Hutter was the man behind the engines of many race drivers and companies for a long time, and his passing will leave a void in the world of auto racing that will be very tough to fill.
Hutter got started working with his dad in their small gas station in a tiny building next door to the Geauga Theater at the South end of Chardon Square.
Hutter then went to Hiram College to be a chemistry teacher, but after three years, he realized his true passion was working on cars and motor vehicles.
He spent a lot of time at Thompson Drag Raceway in his early years too.
As Mr. Hutter worked at Chevy and Pontiac dealerships in Chardon, his work gained worldwide attention in building high performance engines.
Among his notable clients was Dale Earnhardt Jr., who won back to back NASCAR titles with Hutter Racing Engines in 1998 and 1999.
In a tweet, Earnhardt wrote: “Ron built several insane engines for us when we won back to back Busch Series titles (98,99). Those engines made it easy. RIP Ron Hutter.”
Others include Ron Hornaday Junior, who won a National Craftsman Truck Title and Mike Stefanik, who won with Hutter products in the Busch North circuit.
Others have also won with engines originating from Chardon, Ohio.
Private services have already been held at Burr Funeral
A celebration of life will be planned for a later date in Spring/Summer 2024.
