Thomas Eugene McHale, T.E. to all who knew him, died Monday, Dec. 21, from the ravages of colon cancer. He was 68. Marshall Pruett remembered him fondly as “our anchor – our center – in a loud and noisy paddock filled with wanton self-importance.
“Honda’s longtime manager of motorsports communications, the personification of calm and class, was the closest thing we had to a village elder. T.E., with a face that was made to smile, was among the most human and relatable figures in the sport. His keen observations on racing, and life, and music, shared on pit lane, in media centers, or at his beloved Honda hospitality bus, connected us in communal ways.”
Pruett’s remembrance of McHale is at racer.com.
STATEMENT FROM RRDC PRESIDENT BOBBY RAHAL ON THE PASSING OF T.E. McHALE:
“All of us at the RRDC are so sad to hear of the passing of our friend, T.E McHale. I first met T.E. when he worked at the Mansfield (Ohio) News Journal, following the racing at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course for many years. His professionalism, knowledge of the sport and integrity in telling the many stories of our sport were unquestioned.
“Later, he would commit his skills to Honda in publicizing the many successes Honda was to have in North American motorsports. T.E.’s infectious personality and humility set him apart from many and everyone who met him counted him as a friend.
“T.E. was instrumental in facilitating Honda’s support of SAFEisFAST, helping make possible this unique portal to young racer training and nurturing.
“He would often wish a driver ‘Godspeed’ before a race, and I know many would wish him the same now.
“RIP, T.E., and Godspeed to you.”
