The motorsports world in general and drag racing in particular lost a dear and dedicated friend this week when Norm Froscher passed away.  The long-time motorsports editor of the Gainesville Sun, Norm was the first sports writer I ever prodded into covering drag racing.  That was back in 1972 when my brother Terry and I were operating Gainesville Raceway.  It was an honor when NHRA press agent Dave Densmore and I, years later, dedicated the new Norm Froscher press room at the track where Norm was a fixture for more than 35 years.

The motorsports world in general and drag racing in particular lost a dear and dedicated friend this week when Norm Froscher passed away.  The long-time motorsports editor of the Gainesville Sun, Norm was the first sports writer I ever prodded into covering drag racing.  That was back in 1972 when my brother Terry and I were operating Gainesville Raceway.  It was an honor when NHRA press agent Dave Densmore and I, years later, dedicated the new Norm Froscher press room at the track where Norm was a fixture for more than 35 years.  

Although small in physical stature, “Fro” was a giant in the world of motorsports journalism.  He served as president of the American Auto Racing Writers and Broadcasters Association and for years was a voting member on the prestigious Olsonite Driver of The Year Panel along with such other motorsports heavweights as Chris Economaki, Associated Press Motorsports Editor Mike Harris, Dave Marcus of the Chicago Tribune and Shav Glick of the Los Angeles Times.  Norm fit right in, and was adoringly embraced, by everybody he met whether it was Bill France, Roger Penske, Mario Andretti or a long haired (at the time) punk PR hack such as myself.  

Norm and I had a lot of good times and he has left memories that I will cherish forever.  Some that come immediately to mind were attending the annual Driver of The Year awards ceremony at the 21 Club in New York City, rooming together for years at the Daytona 500, and yes, spending way too much time at way too many watering holes, something I grew to regret.  Norm accepted Christ some twenty years ago, made some lifestyle changes and enjoyed a long life with his lovely wife Marilyn and son Teague.  All I can say is rest in peace dear friend.  Hope God has a cigar section.

UPDATE: FUNERAL ARRANGEMENT FOR NORM FROSCHER

Viewing will be held Sunday, 4-6 p.m. at Forest Meadows on 23rd Ave.

Service will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday at Forest Meadows on 39th Ave. in the Chapel.

All locations are in Gainesville. Contact number for Forest Meadows Funeral Home is 352-378-2528 if you need additional information.