Flat Rock Speedway

Tom Shinn, a fixture at Flat Rock Speedway for decades as a wrecker operator, Late Model driver, ARCA official, and race fan, passed away at his home in Taylor, Michigan on October 16, 2024, at the age of 67. He had undergone aggressive cancer treatment for the past 9-1/2 years, continuously maintaining a presence at the track throughout.

Shinn began attending races at Flat Rock as a young man, working alongside his stepfather Hank Simpson, who provided wrecker and flatbed services for the track through his business Hank Simpson Towing. Shinn went on to drive ARCA Street Stock #74 and ARCA Late Model #17 before becoming an ARCA Official at the Speedway, coordinating infield track services. His son Jason Shinn drove the #17 ARCA Street Stock at Flat Rock, and his daughter Amy’s husband Rob Liedel drives ARCA Street Stock #80 at Flat Rock. Amy Liedel also works for and represents longtime Flat Rock and Toledo Speedway track sponsor Churchill Transportation.

Shinn was a lifelong resident of downriver Detroit. He played college basketball alongside long time Flat Rock and Toledo Speedway General Manager Scott Schultz at Monroe County Community College in 1977-78. Despite his failing health, he maintained his outgoing personality and positive attitude to the end and was fortunate to have the caregiver support of Flat Rock ARCA Street Stock driver Craig Lange until his passing. Shinn attended his final race at Toledo Speedway Oct. 5. Cremation has taken place, with a celebration of life tentatively scheduled for Flat Rock Speedway during the 2025 season.