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Justin Wilson: The racing world remembers its ‘Gentle Giant’

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Driver Justin Wilson died from injuries suffered Sunday when a piece of debris struck him during a race at Pocono Raceway, IndyCar announced Monday night.

His brother, fellow driver Stefan Wilson, sent out several loving tweets in honor of "my best friend, my role model and mentor" Monday night.

Wilson's death comes nearly four years after his childhood friend from England, 2011 Indianapolis 500 winner Dan Wheldon, died in an on-track crash during the final race of the season in October 2011. Wheldon's sister, Holly Wheldon, tweeted a tribute to both of them Monday night.

The 37-year-old driver, husband and father of two daughters was known to be well-loved by everyone in the racing community. At 6-foot-4, he was the tallest driver in the IndyCar series and known as the "Gentle Giant."

Needless to say, Wilson will be missed by all.

"Justin's elite ability to drive a race car was matched by his unwavering character, kindness and humility -- which is what made him one of the most respected members of the paddock," IndyCar Chief Executive Mark Miles said.

Driver Graham Rahal, a former teammate of Wilson's, said: "Justin was always the first guy to come up to me and say something positive, something constructive, something helpful. You mention 'team player,' that's Justin, and it's hard to find that sort of guy in sports. He was just the nicest guy out there."

The Andretti Autosport team said: "While Justin was only part of the Andretti lineup for a short time, it only took a second for him to forever become part of the Andretti family. His life and racing career is a story of class and passion surpassed by none. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the Wilson family and fans worldwide. Godspeed, JW.”

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