Four-time Indianapolis 500 starter Lee Kunzman has passed away on February 27. He was 80.

Kunzman overcame serious injuries during his career to start in "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing" in 1972, 1973, 1977 and 1979. His best finish was seventh in 1973 and 1977. His best qualifying spot was 11th for his final start in 1979.

His best finish during his INDYCAR SERIES career was second in 1979 at Atlanta Motor Speedway, falling just short in a thrilling late-race duel with winner Johnny Rutherford.

After his driving career, Kunzman served as team manager for Hemelgarn Racing, which won the "500" in 1996 and the INDYCAR SERIES championship in 2000 with driver Buddy Lazier. The Hemelgarn team also finished second at Indianapolis in 1998 and 2000, with Lazier driving.

For the complete details, visit the INDYCAR announcement here.
 

Image courtesy of INDYCAR