By SEMA Editors
The hot-rodding world lost one of its rising young stars, as Craig Morrison, 46, passed away unexpectedly on June 13 due to complications from COVID-19.
Born in Tacoma, Washington, he enthusiastically followed in his father Art’s footsteps as an avid outdoorsman and automotive craftsman. He attended the University of Washington, where he received his degree in business administration.
Following his graduation, Morrison embarked on a series of travels around the world, and on a trip to England, he met the love of his life, Clarey. She emigrated to the United States, married Craig, and they had a son Alexander, who is now 12.
Morrison began working on his first car—a ’40 Ford—before he had a driver’s license. The ’40 was followed by several notable projects, including an ’80 Chevrolet C10 pickup and ’50 Chevy “Farm Truck” that were both featured in prominent automotive enthusiast magazines.
He tried his hand in competition too, driving the Art Morrison Enterprises (AME)-built “Project Super Glass” ’55 Chevy in NHRA Super Gas competition at Division VI events.
After getting some “real-world experience” in the automotive aftermarket, Morrison returned to AME and became involved in many facets of the company business—eventually rising to vice president.
It was Morrison who recognized the need of a true “bolt-on” replacement chassis to provide a contemporary ride, handling and stance for older vehicles, and was the impetus behind the creation of the Morrison GT Sport chassis—which has become an important cornerstone in the restomod movement.
Among his industry accolades were SEMA’s “HRIA Industry Achievement” Award for 2010, as well as the Gran Tourismo “Best In Show” award for the “Project 3G” Corvette he and his dad built for the 2006 SEMA Show.
Above all, Morrison was a “people person” of the highest order. His enthusiasm, sense of humor and genuine caring enabled him to make countless friends the world over.
As of press time, funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.