(By Greg Engle)
Posted: Saturday,December 26th, 2009
Services have been set for Richard Childress Racing pit crew member Donald “D.J.” Richardson who died from severe complications due to the H1N1 virus Friday night.
Richardson, 37, had been in a Massachusetts hospital since late November. He contracted the H1N1 virus during a visit to Massachusetts over the Thanksgiving holiday. His condition worsened due to the onset of pneumonia before he went to Health Alliance Hospital in Leominster for evaluation. Doctors quickly admitted Richardson to the hospital’s intensive care unit with acute respiratory distress syndrome.
Photo GetWellDJ.com
The news of his passing was announced on a Facebook group started by the RCR communications department for Richardson.
“All of us at RCR are saddened by D.J.’s passing,” Richard Childress, president and CEO of Richard Childress Racing said in a statement. “D.J. was a gifted tire changer, one of the greatest team players in the business and a valued member of the RCR family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.”
A native of Leominster, which is approximately 35 miles northwest of Boston, Richardson joined RCR in July 2009 and finished the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series season as the rear-tire changer for the No. 29 Shell-Pennzoil Chevrolet Impala SS team.
“I am shocked and saddened by the tragic loss of our friend and teammate,” said Matt Clark, director of human performance and leadership development of Richard Childress Racing.
“Anyone who knew D.J. realized that below the tough exterior was a caring father, friend and teammate. He had a huge heart and would do anything to help someone in need. D.J. loved changing tires and was recognized as one of the top pit athletes at the position. I want to extend my condolences to his family and friends.”
Richardson began his NASCAR Sprint Cup Series career with Andy Petree Racing in 1999. He has also worked for Penske Racing, Hendrick Motorsports and Braun Racing.
Saturday, the following details were released about services:
Viewing will be on Tuesday the 29th at Sailas F Richardson and son funeral home from 4-8 p.m.
106 West Street Leominster, MA 01453 phone 978-534-9137
The Funeral will be Wendsday Dec 30th at St. Marks Church at 11 a.m.
60 West Street Leominster MA 01453 phone 978-537-3560.
“In lieu of flowers we ask that when his childrens fund is set up please donate to that. The lawyers are working on the fund now and it should be running early January.”
Details of memorial services in North Carolina are pending and will be made available as soon as possible.
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