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Legendary NASCAR artist Sam Bass dies following battle with kidney illness

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Legendary NASCAR artist Sam Bass has died at age 57 following a battle with a kidney illness.

A spokesperson for the family announced Bass' passing on the artist's official Twitter page Saturday morning.

FAMILY STATEMENT: 

It is with a sad heart that our family shares the news of our loss with the NASCAR community. Sam Bass, a loving husband, father, and inspiration to us all, passed away earlier today. Thank you for your prayers during this very difficult time. God Bless - Denise Bass

Bass was the first officially licensed artist for NASCAR and his work was featured on dozens of race cars for prominent drivers, including Jeff Gordon and Dale Earnhardt Jr.

The President and CEO of Speedway Motorsports Marcus Smith refered to Bass as a "significant part of NASCAR's history."

Smith said Bass' work provided NASCAR fans with a keepsake to treasure and was himself, a treasure to the NASCAR family.

MOTOR SPEEDWAY STATEMENT:

"Our deepest sympathies are with Denise and her family today. Sam Bass has been a significant part of NASCAR’s history. He poured his heart, soul and talent into producing souvenir program covers at many speedways including Charlotte for more than 30 years. His work provided our fans a keepsake to treasure, and that was so appropriate, because Sam was always such a fan of our sport and he was such a treasure to the entire NASCAR family. His body of work will be a legacy that lives forever. We will miss Sam’s smile and positivity."

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