FARGO, N.D. — Danny Schatz, father of 10-time World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series champion Donny Schatz died on Monday (June 27) after a lengthy battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 74 years old.
The family confirmed his death in a statement on Monday evening.
“In one of the darkest moments of our lives, we are not able to find the appropriate words to express the pain in our hearts. We have lost the patriarch of our family,” read the statement. “The love that he had for his wife, children, grandchildren, family and friends knew no bounds.
“As a family, we would like to thank Danny’s medical and care teams, as well as Hospice of the Red River Valley for their care and compassion these past few months. Our family is also especially appreciative of our staff and their families for their support, and we would like to extend a special thank you to our racing family and friends as they have also been a source of strength and comfort.
“We are deeply touched by the outpouring of support and love we have received. Thank you for your compassion and prayers. As we grieve, we ask that you please respect our privacy during this difficult time.”
Danny Schatz drove sprint cars throughout the upper Midwest during the 1970s and bought Donny Schatz a go-kart when he was 10 years old.
Danny and Diane Schatz eventually become their son’s car owners, operating Donny Schatz Racing. Donny Schatz earned a pair of World of Outlaws titles driving his parents’ car and raced their car until he joined Tony Stewart Racing.
Funeral arrangements are being finalized and will be announced at a later date.