MTFCA Forum

With saddened heart I learned today that Racing legend and engine builder from Columbiana, Dick McKee passed away this morning peacefuly. He was known as the masked marvel in the Antique Auto Racing Association. He was famous for his McKee Rutherford and Riley race cars he restored for years. He was a extraordinary man. My son and I both learned alot from him over the years. One of his famous sayings was (Speed cost Money How Fast Do You Want To Go.) Rest in peace RK.

Thank You Kevin for letting me know personally before posting. Dick McKee became a mentor, friend, and a guy that loved a good laugh for me. He believe in KISS (keeping it simple stupid) or improve what has already been tried, etc. A wealth of knowledge was an understatement, he will be missed but never forgotten.

Kevin.., you and I met right there at Dick's place years back.

Thoughts and Prayers for the family,

The Lee's

I also had the pleasure of knowing him during the AARA hay days in Ohio. In fact 2 of the 4 T's I own still have his babbitt work in it. He always use to tell me "don't make it shinny". If I can find them I will post pictures of some of the work he had done.

Kevin, how ironic that I asked you a week ago about how he and Joyce were doing.

I too have fond memories of Dick when my family & I were involved with AARA. One of his other sayings I remember just like it was yesterday was 'If yer gonna Bitch, then go home!'. Below is a pic that I think took in Wauseon, OH back in 2007 when Dick stepped in to give AARA Flagman (Jim Witzler) a break from flagging during the Offy race. What a craftsman Dick was! RIP Sir!!

Two years ago, I purchased a 1917 T Truck that had an engine installed that Dick had rebuilt.

When I added water to try and start it, the water poured out a 1/4th inch hole in the water jacket below the Engine Date Code.

No one could tell me why that hole was drilled there!

When I had Kevin repair the engine, he immediately recognized Dick's work that was not quite complete with the drain hose.

Another thread on this website had the answer.

The engine is running fine now and is the quietest running Model T engine I have ever found or heard!