David Clifford Cripps

David Clifford Cripps (August 23, 1963 – August 22, 2026) was born in Aylesbury, England to Janice and Clifford Cripps. Growing up in England, he developed an interest in automotives and racing. He subsequently earned a degree in Engineering from Nottingham University and began his career as an F1 racing engineer.

In 1990, after moving to Indianapolis to become an IndyCar race team engineer, he met Joy Piotrowski, who immediately became the love of his life. After marrying in 1992, they welcomed their beautiful daughter Sydney Elizabeth on Father’s Day in 2000, followed by their incredible son Jenson David in 2001. His children became his true treasures in life. He took great pride as the kids excelled academically and in sports. While both attended the University of Notre Dame, David became a member of “The Fighting Irish” by hosting tailgates and watching football games.

Outside of his family life, David was passionate about racing. He spent the majority of his career in the IndyCar series as a chief engineer, technical director, and team manager. In 2013, he joined the U. S. Bobsled Team as a coach and participated in the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia. He also had tenure in the electric vehicle industry, then returned to IndyCar to finish his career with a local racing team.

In addition to his passion for IndyCar, he loved F1 racing and was a devoted fan of the Arsenal Football team in the Premier League. When he wasn’t working, David could be found relaxing on the beach in Key West, Florida.

David is survived by Joy, Sydney and Jenson, as well as sister Angela McCafferty (James) and niece and nephew Kyla and Finley. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A visitation will be held Wednesday, August 26 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Indiana Funeral Care East (1307 Shadeland Ave.). A funeral mass will be Thursday, August 27 at 11:00 a.m., with a visitation at 10:00a.m. at St. Simon the Apostle Catholic Church at 8155 Oaklandon Road.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you make a donation to the American Cancer Society.