Frederick Joseph Hurst

Fred J. Hurst passed away peacefully at Hospice of Dayton after a brief illness. Fred was a proud member of IBEW Electricians Local 82 for more than 60 years. He worked with Stein Electric, Tipp Electric, Chapel Electric, and he finished his career at Dayton Children’s Hospital. Fred was a renowned drag racer and won the NHRA World Championship in 1968. He was voted by readers of Car Craft Magazine to the prestigious Car Craft All Star Drag Team in 1969 and again in 1971. He was elected to the Hot Rod Magazine Top Ten in 1969. Fred continued in drag racing for his entire life, with his son Jeff and later, grandson Brian taking over the driving duties.

Fred was born in Dayton, OH on December 21, 1937, and passed away on February 6, 2026, at Hospice of Dayton. Fred was a devoted son, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Fred is survived by his son, Steve F. Hurst, grandchildren, Jennifer Hurst, Brian Hurst (Ashley Potts), Dr. Michael Hurst, Stephanie Hurst, Courtney Hurst, and great-grandson, Travis Butts, daughter-in-law Leslie Hurst, former daughter-in-law Shay Hurst, brother and sister-in-law John and Judy Schell. Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Catherine Hurst, his wife of 66 years Brenda D. Hurst (Schell), and his son Jeff M. Hurst. It was such an inspiration to see the love and devotion that Fred and Brenda had for one another. Fred took such wonderful care of Brenda in her last years.

Visitation for Fred will be on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Tobias Funeral Home, 3970 Dayton Xenia Rd., Dayton, OH 45432. Funeral services will be on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at 11:00 am and burial will be at Byron Cemetery next to his beloved Brenda and near his son Jeff. Please dress casual as Fred was not a suit guy and wear your favorite racing shirt to honor Fred and his love for drag racing.