On behalf of the Gappens family, Eldora Speedway sadly shares the news that longtime motorsports executive and Eldora Speedway general manager Jerry Gappens has passed away at the age of 63.
“Jerry came to Eldora with a wealth of experience and an equal amount of humility,” said Tony Stewart, owner, Eldora Speedway. “No job was too big or too small. His attention to detail was impressive, and he made sure the fan experience at Eldora was exceptional, always finding ways to make improvements with each and every event he oversaw.
“With Jerry at the helm, Eldora Speedway was in great hands, and I’m confident track founders Earl and Berneice Baltes would agree.
“The Eldora community prays for Jerry’s wife, Cheryl, their children Denny, Wes, Allison and Brad, and their family. Jerry’s presence was immeasurable, and he is sorely missed by all of us.”
Gappens came to Eldora from Indiana’s Gas City I-69 Speedway where he had been the promotor of the quarter-mile, dirt oval since 2018. Prior to his tenure at Gas City, Gappens spent 23 years with Speedway Motorsports, specifically serving as executive vice president and general manager of New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon for eight years (2008-2015) and senior vice president of events and marketing of Charlotte (N.C.) Motor Speedway for 15 years (1993-2007).
Funeral arrangements will be shared at a later date.