It is with great sadness, Canadian motorsports legend Bill Zardo Sr. “Big Z”, passed away at 80 on Tuesday, December 13th, 2022. The Big Z, who was just inducted into the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame, and returned to racing in the OSCAAR Hot Rod class in 2022, has unexpectedly died and left all of us heartbroken. His daughter, Sharon Shepherd confirmed his death and distinguish her father as an exemplary human being.
Scroll down to know more about Bill Zardo, including who he was, how he died, what was the cause of his death, tributes for Bill Zardo, and a lot more.
Who Was Bill Zardo?
Born in Brampton, Ontario, Bill Zardo Sr. made the long haul to the Maritimes from Ontario many times over several decades with Riverside often his destination, back in the day with his familiar No. 46 and most recently with family members racing in the NASCAR Pinty’s Series. One of the racing families’ patriarchs, Bill Zardo Sr. was a well-known and accomplished racer.
He came into the limelight when he won at Peterborough Speedway at the end of July, which was truly a nail-biting. And when he wasn’t racing, the resident of Brampton, Ontario, frequented the area’s speedways to support his loved ones and hang out with his countless friends.
This interview took place at Ohsweken Speedway in mid-August. Zardo discusses his decision to return to racing at the age of 80 as well as his recent victory at Peterborough.
How Did Bill Zardo Die? Cause of Death
Canadian Racing Legend, Bill Zardo, a fierce competitor who lets his game do the talking unexpectedly passed away on Tuesday, December 13th at exactly 7:15 pm. The entire racing community is grieving the loss of their legend and praying for his family.
According to his daughter, Sharon Shepherd, Bill was heading out to the garage to work on his racecar, when his heart stops pumping. He suffered a heart attack while driving on the road, which ultimately led him to his last breath.
His grandson, Lane Zardo posted a picture on Facebook and showed how terribly pained to hear about the tragic demise of his beloved grandfather.
Lane said, “He was my best friend and He didn’t suffer, and he doesn’t want us to suffer. It’s a good thing when it’s hard to say goodbye to someone. I feel like it was lucky for every one of you to have a few moments with him.”
Tributes for Bill Zardo
Kim Fisher: “He was one of the best. Always so much fun to be around. Great family.
Prayers to his family. RiP Bill.”
Terry Jacques: “This man had the best life any man could have. And gives us racers hope for more fun in the future. Rest in peace, sir…”
Ronald Klein: “I remember seeing the Zardo family race for the first time at the Spring green at Airborne in 1990. I instantly became a fan of his. Sad to hear of Sr passing. RIP.”
Dianne Hayes: “We are so saddened to hear this news. Big Z…such a great guy and racer ~ both sides of the border”.
May God grant his family the strength to get through this difficult period. Hopefully, you get all the information you require on how Bill Zardo died. Please keep checking the website for more articles like this. Use the comment section to express how this tragic news has affected you.
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I having watching Bill Zardo since the old days at Pinescrest Speedway.He truly is a legend and this is such a bad day for everyone that had the pleasure to have met him.The whole Zardo Family is what life is all about.R.I.P. Bill as you will be dearly missed and thank you for the Memories.You are now in Gods winner circle and talking with all of the other great Canadian racers.
Condolances to Mr. Zardo Family. Saw him race many times during the 1980’s. RIP racer!
Condolences to Bills Wife Gail and the Whole Zardo Family. Bill I watched you Race Many Times at Pinecrest, You were The Best of The Best. R I P Bill Zardo Sr You Will Never Be Forgotten
I send my condolences to Bill’s family. I have many fond memories of my late father John and myself traveling around to watch Bill, Jr. Handley, Bruce Gowland ,and Pete Shepard ll racing in the Super Late Model Series. As well I can remember going with my late father John down to Bill’s yard to pick up parts or to visit. I can’t count the times I saw Bill fight he’s way to a win through grit will and skill. Bill didn’t always have the best car but, that never stopped him. Bill had quite the presents on track and the other driver knew it. If Bill was behind them they knew he was there. I also, had the pleasure to see Bill race in Florida one time as well. Bill’s grandson Pete Shepard lll started racing in the thunder car class at Flambero speedway when are family was running a thunder car as well. They parked beside us for my years. Bill was very supportive of Pete lll. Bill will be greatly missed, a true race legend!