I'm sure most of us remember John (1941-2021). Not long after his passing, many wondered what would happen to all his personal papers given that he was a prolific writer about Corvettes and Camaros for both magazines and Web sites.
John and I formed a bond over 20 years ago through the TDB when I mentioned that my first job out of college was with Pontiac Motor Division as as production engineer and was engineering liaison to the Van Nuys Chevrolet plant for the '69 Firebird pilot built; and not long after I came to understand that John was the Lordstown launch manager for the Cosworth Vega. (I'm the original owner of #2110, an early '76 model).
John and I first got together at the 2002 Monterey National Convention and spent a long and pleasant dinner together swapping war stories, and he graciously and enthusiastically accepted my invitation to write articles (I recall three) for the Cosworth Vega Owners' Association Magazine, and he was also guest speaker for at least one annual CVOA National Roundup held in the Detroit area.
Given all the automotive Web sites and the number of auto industry employees and retirees it's surprising that relatively few choose to participate in the enthusiast community, but John was different. I'm not sure what GM executive coined this phrase (maybe Ed Cole?), but John definitely had "gasoline in his veins", and he enthusiastically shared his knowledge with everyone who was interested. He could keep one entertained for an entire evening with tales of the "personalities" he interacted with along with stories about the mindless bureaucracy, foolish politics, and screw-ups that would leave you slack-jawed, shaking your head in amazement or laughing until you cried.
Earlier this week I was contacted by Kurt Sonen of the Camaro Research Group with a Cosworth Vega question. He informed me that he had worked with John on several research projects, and he is currently working with John's widow on the disposition of his writings. Many had suggested to John that he write a book, and though he never firmly committed, he was working on a memoir, but it remained incomplete due to his health issues.
Kurt edited the draft into a complete document and the 41-page pdf is attached. I'm sure all will find it a thoroughly enjoyable read.
John also left a library of articles with the CRG, many of which may be of interest to vintage Corvette owners at:
Duke
John and I formed a bond over 20 years ago through the TDB when I mentioned that my first job out of college was with Pontiac Motor Division as as production engineer and was engineering liaison to the Van Nuys Chevrolet plant for the '69 Firebird pilot built; and not long after I came to understand that John was the Lordstown launch manager for the Cosworth Vega. (I'm the original owner of #2110, an early '76 model).
John and I first got together at the 2002 Monterey National Convention and spent a long and pleasant dinner together swapping war stories, and he graciously and enthusiastically accepted my invitation to write articles (I recall three) for the Cosworth Vega Owners' Association Magazine, and he was also guest speaker for at least one annual CVOA National Roundup held in the Detroit area.
Given all the automotive Web sites and the number of auto industry employees and retirees it's surprising that relatively few choose to participate in the enthusiast community, but John was different. I'm not sure what GM executive coined this phrase (maybe Ed Cole?), but John definitely had "gasoline in his veins", and he enthusiastically shared his knowledge with everyone who was interested. He could keep one entertained for an entire evening with tales of the "personalities" he interacted with along with stories about the mindless bureaucracy, foolish politics, and screw-ups that would leave you slack-jawed, shaking your head in amazement or laughing until you cried.
Earlier this week I was contacted by Kurt Sonen of the Camaro Research Group with a Cosworth Vega question. He informed me that he had worked with John on several research projects, and he is currently working with John's widow on the disposition of his writings. Many had suggested to John that he write a book, and though he never firmly committed, he was working on a memoir, but it remained incomplete due to his health issues.
Kurt edited the draft into a complete document and the 41-page pdf is attached. I'm sure all will find it a thoroughly enjoyable read.
John also left a library of articles with the CRG, many of which may be of interest to vintage Corvette owners at:
Duke
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