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How did Bobby Unser aka Uncle Bobby die? Fans mourn racing legend's death: 'Godspeed to Indy’s favorite Uncle'

'He was the total package - adored by fans, funny and charming, and a true champion,' the Indianapolis Motor Speedway tweeted after his death

American motorsports icon Bobby Unser, famously known by his nickname 'Uncle Bobby', died on Sunday, May 2, 2021. He was 87 years old at the time of his death. The three-time winner of the Indianapolis 500 was recognized for being a two-time USAC national champion, an IROC champion, and also for winning the Pikes Peak Hill Climb 13 times.

He hailed from the famous Unser family known for their prowess in racing at the Indianapolis 500 (Indy 500). His brother Al is a four-time winner of the iconic race while his uncle Louis won the Pikes Peak Hillclimb nine times. Bobby Unser is survived by his wife Lisa, sons Bobby Jr. and Robby, and daughters Cindy and Jeri. 

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How did Bobby Unser die?

According to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS), the famous racer and broadcaster died at his home in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He is known to have died from natural causes. 

"RIP to a LEGEND. Today, the racing world mourns the passing of three-time Indianapolis 500 champion Bobby Unser. He was the total package - adored by fans, funny and charming, and a true champion. An icon, always remembered. Godspeed, racer," IMS tweeted from their official account. 

The legend, who was a member of multiple Halls of Fame in motorsports, was also fondly remembered by his ardent fans on social media. "The 1st to win the “500” in 3 different decades, while finishing last in his 1st start and 1st in his last start. One of racing’s most colorful, charismatic and engaging personalities. God Speed to Indy’s favorite Uncle. Bobby Unser. Legend," tweeted Indy 500 announcer Jake Query. 

"Will always remember the candid chats with legendary three-time #Indy500 winner Bobby Unser. He always kept it lively. And that's putting it mildly. RIP "Uncle Bobby," wrote Sports Illustrated editor Philip B. Wilson. 

ESPN writer Ryan McGee tweeted, "Godspeed to Uncle Bobby Unser. One of my favorite interviews of the last several years was sitting with the 3-time #Indy500 winner in 2018 to talk about his days as an ABC TV analyst."

"Uncle Bobby dying at the start of May wasn’t what I had in mind," a grieving fan tweeted.