With regret

[Garry Lobaugh]

With regret and heavy heart, I want to share with the local karting community the recent passing of Joanne C McCallum, Mel's wife. Mel is the founder of South Bend Raceway Park which our family purchased in 2003. Joanne passed away this Sunday March 22nd in her home.

Many of you will recall Joanne known by all as "Sunshine" as she worked the gate and helped Mel keep tabs on the property. They both loved their racing and built the foundation of one America's premier racing facilities.

Our family is very appreciative of Mel and Joanne's support of our purchase and management of the property. I hope that all of you who know Mel and remember Joanne will share your online condolences via www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

For those who wish to make contributions in rememberance of Joanne's life please make them to The Center for Hospice &Palliative Care Inc, 111 Sunnybrook Court, South Bend, Ind 46637

[Denny Long]

For those who raced MKK days, the McCallums always made the Sunday Ritual very interesting. I can still see Joanne sitting there waiting for us to come in, and Mel walking the grounds. Who could forget the kids and grandkids helping and racing. It sure gave a great foundation for what the property has become and a Legacy by the McCallum family for this sport.

[Garry Lobaugh]

Thanks Denny for an excellent observation. For sure Mel and Joanne showed all of us the dedication needed of a family to organize and operate a track.

Here is a late update for those who can spend a few moments in memory of Joanne.
A memorial gathering will be from noon to 2pm Saturday, March 28th in American Legion Post # 284 which is located at Sample and Mayflower. This is just a tick away from the 7/11 gas station to the West. I know Mel and the rest of the family will greatly appreciate any racers who participate and share their thanks to Joanne and pay tribute to Mel for his dedication to our sport and the hard work at the property formerly known as McCallum's South Bend Raceway Park.