Jim Lange, a native of Effingham, Illinois, and a legendary land speed racer, passed away on Monday, October 6, 2025, leaving his family and loved ones heartbroken.
While details surrounding his death are not yet available, many of his loved ones are paying tribute to the legendary Illinois racer and extending their heartfelt condolences to his family during this difficult time.
Jim Lange was renowned for his incredible accomplishments behind the wheel of his 1963 Studebaker Avanti, spanning a career of over three decades in racing.
He leaves behind a legacy of record-breaking achievements at the Bonneville Salt Flats.
Lange’s journey into the world of land speed racing began in 1989 when he first visited the Bonneville Salt Flats as part of Ron Hall’s crew.
That experience, which he later described as “Salt Fever,” ignited a lifelong passion for speed.
Similarly, the following year, Lange entered the Salt Flats on his own with his Studebaker Avanti, reaching 168 mph, a modest beginning that would soon lead to much greater feats.
By 1995, Lange had set his first land speed record, reaching a speed of 191 mph.
His focus on speed continued to grow, and by 1996, he pushed his record to 212.292 mph, setting it three times that year.
Lange’s dedication to breaking barriers in land speed racing reached its peak in 2009 when he set his world record of 223.238 mph in the “Classic Blown Gas Altered” class, a record that still stands to this day.
Known for his meticulous preparation and the distinctive look of his car, Lange’s 1963 Studebaker Avanti earned the nickname “Due Centro, The Next Generation.” The car’s design was reminiscent of the famous vehicle built by racing legend Andy Granatelli in 1963, further cementing Lange’s connection to the history of land speed racing.
Lange’s final attempt to break his own record came in 2016, when he pushed his car to 199 mph; however, his engine blew before he could surpass his previous high.
Despite the setback, Lange’s position in land speed racing history was firmly established, and his accomplishments remained unmatched.
Outside of his racing career, Lange was a successful businessman, operating Lange Electric.
He made sure to share his passion with the local community, frequently speaking at local events, such as the Effingham Noon Rotary Club, where he recently discussed his adventures on the Bonneville Salt Flats.
In addition to his racing career, Lange was also known for his contributions to the Effingham community, where he had deep ties through his family and business.
His passing marks the end of an era in land speed racing, but his impact and legacy will live on in the world of motorsports.
Jim Lange is Survived By His Daughters, Grandchildren, and The Entire Family
Jim Lange was not just a great racer but also an amazing father to his two daughters, Sherry Banner Lange and Shelly Rief Lange.
While very little information about his daughters is available, they prefer to maintain a low profile; however, Jim Lange often expressed his love for them in interviews.
In addition to his daughters, Jim Lange was a loving grandfather to his five grandchildren: Tyler, Blake, and Nichole Banner, as well as Kylie and Kendall Reif.
He is also survived by his son-in-laws, Diana Reif and Jeff Banner, his sister, Mille Lange, and Michelle Lange, as well as several nieces and nephews, and the entire family.
Jim Lange was preceded in death by his loving wife, Linda L. Lange, who passed away on Friday, June 9, 2023, at HSHS St John’s Hospital in Springfield, Illinois.
The couple tied the knot on April 7, 1963, and were happily married for six decades, successfully running their shop, Lange Electric.
Jim was also preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Delphia Lange, and brother Tom Lange.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- James ‘Jim’ Lange’s family has yet to provide details about his funeral and memorial services.
- His wife, Linda, worked at Murphy’s Sears and owned her own store named Arcola.
