ALABAMA — It is with profound sadness that the automotive community announces the passing of Sam Memmolo, a legendary master technician, producer, and pioneering television host. Memmolo passed away peacefully last night, leaving behind an unmatched legacy that spans more than 45 years in the automotive industry.
As an ASE Certified Master Auto Technician, Memmolo became one of the most recognizable and trusted faces in automotive media. He set the absolute benchmark for how car repair and hobbyist passion were presented on television. Alongside his long-time co-host and friend Dave Bowman, Memmolo hosted and helped write a series of immensely popular programs that defined a generation of automotive programming, including Shadetree Mechanic, Crank and Chrome, and Two Guys Garage on the SPEED channel.
Most recently, he continued to share his wealth of knowledge through his syndicated radio program, Sam’s Garage Radio Show, and as a host on Motorhead Garage. Throughout his multi-decade broadcast career, Memmolo was widely celebrated for his unique ability to explain highly complex mechanical problems in simple, engaging terms for millions of hot-rod, street-rod, and DIY performance enthusiasts.
Beyond his incredible professional achievements, Sam was universally known as a warm, authentic, and generous friend to anyone who met him in the pits, at trade shows like SEMA, or through his work. He spent his semi-retirement years in Alabama with his wife Diana, surrounded by his beloved hot rods and rescued dogs.
Details regarding memorial services will be shared by the family as they become available. The automotive aftermarket and media landscape have lost a true titan, and his presence will be deeply missed.
