Former Head of MINI USA Dies Suddenly
Earlier today BMW of North America announced that Jack Pitney, Vice President of marketing, was killed “in a tragic accident while on vacation at his farm.” It is believed that he was working on his tractor when the tragedy occurred.
Mr. Pitney, 47, lived in Ridgewood, NJ with his wife, Quincy, and their five children. According to The Star Ledger
Jack was a passionate man who was an enthusiast through and through. His passion was evident at this past years NY Autoshow when he rode a BMW S1000RR out in front of a packed hall; not many execs would dare do that.
One of his many accomplishments was helping launch MINI in the states back in 2001 as the brand’s general manager and vice president. In fact he was one of a handful of people within BMW who created the internal grassroots campaign to bring the car to the US as BMW had originally not intended for it to be sold in North America.
Over the years, Jack has been a supporter of MotoringFile and BimmerFile. He knew that enthusiasts and passionate BMW owners are key to the continued success of the brand on the larger scale.
We last spoke briefly with Jack at the Lime Rock ALMS race, where he was glad to see the success the Rahal Letterman team was having and was grateful for the fans support. He had hoped the team would give the fans many more wins throughout the year. He was happy to see BMW to continue on racing and was an avid supporter.
Pitney had accepted a new position said to begin September 1 as the Vice President of the Eastern Region.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jack’s family, friends and all those at BMWNA. He was a passionate man, and a friend. He will be missed.
<p>Although we did not have the privilege of knowing Mr. Pitney personally, all of us in the MINI community had our lives touched and made better by his passion for and understanding of the MINI and the people who love it. To his family, friends and all who were lucky enough to know him our sincere condolences.</p>
<p>This is very sad. I met Jack many times and he was a great man. Very passionate and a real people person. This is a huge loss for the BMW community. Jack, may you have a peaceful journey!</p>
<p>I am very sorry to read of this loss… an accomplished career but still far too early… far too young. Best wishes to Mr. Pitney’s family.</p>
<p>A sad and tragic turn of events, my greatest condolences to Mr. Pitney’s family, friend, and co-workers.</p>
<p>My Condolences to his family and friends.</p>
<p>R.I.P. Mr. Pitney…</p>
<p>…obviously a man of insight and presence. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife and five children.</p>
<p>This is very tragic! My condolences and wishes to his family and friends.</p>
<p>this is so sad….my thoughts and prayers to his family and friends —</p>
<p>A tragic loss to all BMW, MINI, and community. No question that Pitney was the driving force behind the success of MINI introduction in USA. As Michael Jackson’s song says “Gone too soon”.</p>
<p>I had a privilege to work with Jack for 4 years at MINIUSA. He was a wonderful man and a pleasure to work for.
It was my pleasure and privilege to know him.
My sincere condolences to his family, friends and all who knew him.</p>