Last Friday, I received a call from Nancy Preston, the wife of customer Ron Preston. Ron has had a huge presence in the FFR community, helping many build their cars and providing great feedback on The Factory Five Forum over the years. Nancy kindly asked if I could spare a moment to speak with Ron… I was deeply touched by the request. It turns out, Ron had kept his battle with stage 4 cancer private from everyone. Despite his circumstances, Ron and I laughed it up remembering good Factory Five stories and mutual friends. Ron let me know that he was in hospice and wasn’t going to make it long. He wanted to thank me for the cars, community, and adventures he had enjoyed for more than a decade. He told me that FFR was such a big part of his life. What an honor it is to run a company that makes such a difference in the lives of others. I ended the call humbled and in tears knowing this good man was facing the end of his road.

Ron helped many people build their cars, and was a skilled mechanic and lifelong Ford lover. He passed away on Tuesday morning.

Ron with Factory Five customers Jim K., Tino, and Joe M.

Ron Preston reminds me that the “stuff” only matters when it brings us together with the ones we love. How lucky am I to run a company that understands we build far more than cars. What an honor to know Ron and offer my condolences on behalf of everyone at Factory Five Racing.  

Godspeed my friend.

Nancy has informed us that the funeral will be held on Monday, March 25th, from 10 am to 12 pm at Candle Light Funeral Home in Catonsville, MD. If you wish to honor Ron’s memory, Nancy kindly asks for donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in lieu of flowers.

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