John Surtees, winner of the 1964 Formula One World Championship and the only person to have won the championship titles on both two and four wheels, died two weeks ago at the age of 83.
Surtees was initially known for his skill as a motorcycle winning the 500 cc world championship in 1956, 1958, 1959 and 1960 before switching to Formula One and claiming the historic title four years later.
The Surtees name continued in motor sport with his son Henry racing in Formula II, who was sadly killed in a freak accident in 2009 at the Brands Hatch circuit when a wheel came adrift from another competitor and struck young Surtees on the head.
The sad news was confirmed by his family in a statement issued by the Henry Surtees Foundation. “John Surtees, 83, was admitted to St Georges Hospital, London in February with an existing respiratory condition and after a short period in intensive care he passed away peacefully this afternoon. His wife, Jane and daughters, Leonora and Edwina were by his side.
“John was a loving husband, father, brother and friend. He was also one of the true greats of motorsport and continued to work tirelessly up until recently with The Henry Surtees Foundation and Buckmore Park Kart Circuit.
“We deeply mourn the loss of such an incredible, kind and loving man as well as celebrate his amazing life. He has set a very real example of someone who kept pushing himself at his peak and one who continued fighting until the very end.
“We would like to thank all the staff at St George’s Hospital and The East Surrey Hospital for their professionalism and support during this difficult time for us. Thank you also to all of those who have sent their kind messages in recent weeks.
John Surtees was also in receipt of the CBE, but did not actively pursue elevation to a Knighthood, despite on-line petitioning by enthusiasts to the British government.
