Mike Reedy (1941 – 2011)
The RC World has lost another great with the passing of legend Mike Reedy. Most famous for his motor and battery preparation, drivers running Reedy products took an unprecedented 28 World titles. A respected figure, not only for his technical prowess and his ability to spot talented drivers and take them under his wing, but he was also a great ambassador for the sport. Having battled with illness for some years, Mike passed away in the early hours of Tuesday May 17th, he was 70 years old. Our condolences go out to the Reedy family and those who knew him.
UPDATED: A message from Mike Reedy’s family
It is with very heavy hearts that we must inform everyone of Mike Reedy’s passing early this morning. Mike lost his 10-plus year battle with Parkinson’s disease but passed away peacefully surrounded by many of his Associated family and friends.
As the man who turned his name into one of the most successful racing brands in R/C history, Mike Reedy could be found in the pits of every major race event building and tuning motors for most of the top R/C drivers in the world. It didn’t matter whether you were a world champion, or just an average racer, Mike was there to help everyone and had a true passion for doing this.
Mike contributed greatly to the technology of the R/C industry, but perhaps where he made his most measurable contribution was in the lives of countless young drivers coming up through the racing ranks. He served as the Team Associated race team manager for over 20 years, and during that time, scouted, and mentored some of the best talent the R/C industry has ever witnessed. Names like Jay Halsey, Masami Hirosaka, Mark Pavidis, Bill Easton, Brian Kinwald, Tony Neisinger, Neil Cragg, Craig Drescher, Matt Francis, Mark Francis, Cliff Lett, Ryan Maifield, and many others are prime examples of the unparalleled influence he had on our industry and the people in it.
Mike asked that there be no funeral services for his passing, but rather an R/C party celebration of his life. Details will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of sending flowers, we ask that you consider making a memorial contribution in Mike Reedy’s name to the National Parkinson Foundation at the link here.
