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James “Penny” Paniagua, who gave Jeff Gordon start in racing, dies

Quote selected text Published January 1st, 2008 in NASCAR News

Jeff GordonJames “Penny” Paniagua, who gave NASCAR superstar Jeff Gordon his first taste of speed, died Saturday, a week after suffering a heart attack. “He was at home, surrounded by all his family,” said son Jimmy Paniagua of his father’s passing. James Paniagua, 89, introduced hundreds of youngsters, including a 4-year-old Gordon, to quarter-midget racing.

An innovative designer and mechanic, he custom built more than 100 quarter-midget cars. Among his first models was one bought by John Bickford, Gordon’s stepfather, for the racing prodigy. His wife of 65 years, Naomi, also has been in poor health. The couple have four children, all of whom have been active in the local auto racing community. Their grandson, Paul McMahan, is a veteran sprint-car racer in the World of Outlaws.

Visitation for Paniagua will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday at Elk Grove Funeral Chapel, 9101 Elk Grove Blvd., Elk Grove. His memorial service is set for 11 a.m. Saturday at the United Methodist Church, 6th and M streets in Rio Linda.

Sacramento Bee

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6 Responses to “James “Penny” Paniagua, who gave Jeff Gordon start in racing, dies”  

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  1. 1 sal Jan 1st, 2008 at 2:33 pm Quote

    he definately gave jeff a great career as soon as he got behind the wheel RIP

  2. 2 Domi Jan 1st, 2008 at 3:31 pm Quote

    My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. The racing community has lost another great Mentor…..RIP……
    **24 Fan 4 Life**

  3. 3 Tex Registered User Jan 1st, 2008 at 7:30 pm Quote

    So unfortunate. If it weren’t for him, Jeff Gordon would not be where he is today. Rest In Peace, man. My prayers are w/ his family.

    Sometime Jeff, when the odds are up against you, when things are wrong and the breaks are not going in your favor, go into 2008 w/ all you’ve got, and win one (more Cup) for the Penny.

  4. 4 Linnie Jan 2nd, 2008 at 11:29 am Quote

    So sad, one of the greats. He will be sadly missed. Thoughts and prayers to family and friends. And now to Jeff, best of luck and success in ‘08. Your the greatest of all!!!! Linnie

  5. 5 Robert Jan 26th, 2008 at 6:58 pm Quote

    Jeff’s first quarter midget was the “fuzz car” built a gentleman named Bill Fariss who had two sons that raced as well. God bless Penny.

  6. 6 Anonymous Apr 23rd, 2008 at 1:18 pm Quote

    hi jeff

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