Businessman, entrepreneur, philanthropist and major sports supporter Forrest Lucas is being remembered after he passed away Saturday at the age of 83.
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“We are deeply saddened by the passing of our founder, Forrest Lucas,” a statement from the company read. “Forrest’s boundless drive for Lucas Oil, his generosity and love for his family, friends and community defined his life. While we grieve this tremendous loss, we take comfort in knowing his legacy will continue to inspire our team and all who knew him.”
Lucas, who built a multi-million dollar business selling automotive care products, most notably Lucas Oil products, had been in failing health in recent years.
Born in Ramsey, Indiana, Lucas never strayed from his Hoosier roots, becoming heavily involved in Indianapolis-area activities, including having naming rights on the stadium home of the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts, Lucas Oil Stadium and Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park.
According to various reports, Lucas was a self-made man. With just a high school education, he began his business as a long-haul trucker, building a freight brokerage business that delivered freight across the 48 contiguous US states.
He founded Lucas Oil Products in 1989, which quickly grew to become one of the most popular vehicle additive companies, particularly through its ties in the motorsports industry, most notably NASCAR, NHRA and IndyCar. He also founded MavTV, which he sold earlier this year, as well as Forrest Films, a film production company. He also owned a sprawling 16,000 acre cattle ranch in Missouri.
As a philanthropist, Lucas and his second wife, Charlotte, donated millions of dollars to charity, most notably the Protect the Harvest, which opposed “the radical animal rights movement.”
In recent years, Lucas began pulling back from day-to-day operations of his companies, mainly due to health challenges, and turned over control and leadership of the company to his son Morgan, a former NHRA racer.
Lucas and Charlotte lived for many years in a mansion that abutted the property of Indianapolis Raceway Park. Today, Lucas is survived by Charlotte, the couple being married for 43 years, and seven children. The funeral plans are pending.
Here are several testimonials to Lucas:
Indianapolis Colts owner and CEO Carlie Irsay-Gordon: “With the passing of Forrest Lucas, the Indianapolis Colts have lost a dear friend, and our city and state have lost an extraordinary business pioneer, leader, and a giant among Hoosiers.
Our memories with Forrest and his family go back a long way, and we have cherished every moment of our business partnership as well as our personal relationship. We have been honored to work with him on so many important projects over the years, and we especially loved working alongside Lucas Oil in serving those in need in our community.
Our hearts go out to Charlotte, Morgan, Katie, and the entire Lucas family for this incredible loss. The Lucas family name graces our home at Lucas Oil Stadium, and we are proud to carry his legacy into the future every time we take the field.
And of course, our dad (the late James Irsay) had a special relationship with Forrest, and we know he is awaiting him with open arms.”
National Hot Rod Association president Glen Cromwell: “Forrest Lucas was more than a businessman; he was a visionary who believed in motorsports from the grassroots up. The NHRA and countless racers are better because of his passion and generosity… We are saddened to hear of the passing of Forrest Lucas.”
The NHRA, which gave Lucas a lifetime achievement award last year, also issued a statement on X: “Forrest and (Lucas Oil) have long been deeply rooted in NHRA drag racing. A true visionary in the sport, he will be greatly missed. We send our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.”
Indiana Pacers: “We are saddened by the passing of Forrest Lucas, a visionary entrepreneur and long-time friend of Pacers Sports and Entertainment. His passion for innovation, commitment to excellence and dedication to giving back set an example for us all. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Lucas family and the entire team at Lucas Oil.”
