Crew member with Chip Ganassi Racing’s Xfinity team dies

Ryan Shea, car chief for Chip Ganassi Racing’s Xfinity Series team, died Wednesday night in his Troutman, N.C., home, Chip Ganassi Racing stated. Shea was 34 years old, according to his Facebook page.

According to his LinkedIn page, Shea joined Chip Ganassi Racing in Jan. 2015. He was a car chief/mechanic at Michael Waltrip Racing from 2007-15. Shea began working in NASCAR in Feb. 2001 when he was hired by BAM Racing. He later worked for FitzBradshaw Racing, Carver Racing, ppc Racing and Braun Racing.

“It is a sad day for our team as we mourn the untimely loss of Ryan,” said Chip Ganassi, team owner. “Ryan was a dedicated worker and a great friend to those on our team, as well as others in the garage. Our hearts go out to Ryan’s family and friends during this difficult time.”

“Ryan was a tremendous asset to Chip Ganassi Racing and the No. 42 team and will be sorely missed,” said crew chief Mike Shiplett. “My thoughts go out to his wife, children, family and friends in this time of mourning.”

Kyle Larson and Justin Marks have split time driving the No. 42 car this season. Larson drove the car at Daytona, Atlanta and Auto Club Speedway. Marks drove the car at Las Vegas and Phoenix.

Marks stated on Twitter: “Racing is family: It is said that NASCAR is one big family. This means that Ryan Shea was my brother. My brother in a love for racing, dedication to making cars go as fast as possible, being a team player, and a devotion to not only the Katerra/ENEOS 42 team but all of Chip Ganassi Racing.

“I didn’t know Ryan for very long. But the impact he made on his teammates and coworkers was evident in all of their eyes today on the shop floor at CGR.

“We’re all in this together because of our shared love for the sport we’ve all invested so much of our lives into. When we lose a member it hurts the entire family. But it won’t be in vain because this team will dig deeper, work harder, and achieve more in memory of Ryan.

“That’s what families do.”

Kyle Larson stated on Twitter: “Saddened by the loss of my car chief in the xfinity series. Can’t believe he’s gone so soon! My condolences go out to him and his family.”

Chip Ganassi Racing will communicate further details regarding funeral arrangements and memorials as they become available.

Condolences came from throughout the NASCAR community on social media:

If you didn't know Ryan Shea.. You should know he was a loving husband, great dad, super guy, and a fantastic worker. Part 1

— Danny R Earnhardt Jr (@DREjr88) March 31, 2016

Sorry to hear about Ryan Shea passing away last Nite . Prayers for his wife and family . Truly one of the great guys in the sport . #RIP

— Michael McCarville (@Nook4SHR) March 31, 2016

Saddened to hear about the passing of Ryan Shea this AM, many prayers to his family,friends and co-workers @CGRTeams at this time.

— Brent Wentz (@Brent_Wentz) March 31, 2016

Just heard the news of Ryan Shea passing away in his sleep. A great person and great worker in the industry.. Prayers with his wife & kids🙏🏼

— Rodney Childers (@RodneyChilders4) March 31, 2016

I didn't know Ryan Shea very long, but I do know he was a great man, father, and husband. Rest in Paradise man, you will be missed.

— Jacob Schauf (@jacob_schauf) March 31, 2016

In disbelief. We lost our car chief on 42 xfinity car last night. RIP Ryan shea. Thoughts and prayers to his family. :(. Next win is for u!

— Derek Kneeland (@SpotterDerek) March 31, 2016

Thoughts go out to the Shea family, so sad. I'm glad I had the opportunity to work with Ryan back in the Braun days, great guy.

— Trent Owens (@wtrentowens) March 31, 2016

The race track will be a lot less entertaining without you. Godspeed Ryan Shea. pic.twitter.com/H0ebhfv4gd

— Ian Moye (@iancmoye) March 31, 2016

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