"Gentleman" John Auxter

"Gentleman" John Auxter, 93 of Lindsey passed away on November 8, 2022 at his home.

He was born on March 29, 1929 to the late Emerson A. and Geneva F. (Reed) Auxter in Washington Township.

John was an accomplished athlete in high school, playing football and basketball, and running track. He graduated from Fremont Ross High School in 1948. In 1951, he was one of the first drivers to compete at the Fremont Speedway. His love of racing led him to become the 1953 MARC Champion, as well as the 1972 Super Modified Sprint Champion at Fremont Speedway. John went on to compete at over 200 tracks throughout his career, including Daytona Beach. He was inducted into the Little 500 Hall of Fame and was an inaugural inductee at the Fremont Speedway Hall of Fame in 2009.

John was also known as the Pickle Farmer, and had the honor of being the 5th generation of Auxter Farms, which began in 1837.

Left to cherish his memory are his niece and nephews, Kurt (Cindy) Michael of Sylvania, Chris (Kathy) Michael of Lindsey, and Beth (Roger) Schlea of Gibsonburg; 8 great nieces and nephews; many great-great nieces and nephews; brother-in-law, Clyde (Janet) Michael; and many beloved friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Emerson and Geneva; and sister, Suzanne J. Michael.

A time of visitation will be held on Sunday, November 13, 2022 from 1:00-8:00 PM at the Herman-Karlovetz Funeral Home & Crematory, 900 North St. Fremont. Friends and family are also encouraged to join us for John's last lap in the Fremont Speedway grandstands on Monday morning, beginning at 9:00AM. Funeral services will be held on Monday, November 14, 2022 at Ole Zim's Wagon Shed, 1375 OH 590, Gibsonburg at 11:00 AM with visitation held an hour prior from 10:00-11:00. Burial will follow at Lindsey Cemetery.

A true race fan until the end, John's family requests that friends and visitors wear their favorite racing attire.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Fremont Speedway Hall of Fame.

To view John's memorial video or to leave online condolences, please visit HermanFH.com