Classic Car Enthusiast Margaret Dunning Passes Away At 104
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Margaret Dunning became known as a living automotive enthusiast legend. At the age of 104, she was still deeply engrained in automotive culture, and earned the name “Grand Lady of Classic Cars,” as bestowed by Driving.
Dunning, although spunky as could be for a 104 year old, sadly passed away on May 17th after suffering a fall. But her legacy will live on, as many remember her pristine 1930 Cadillac coupe convertible. The 1930 Cadillac could be seen at nearly any concourse event, and was always in attendance for the Woodward Avenue Dream Cruise.
Dunning came from a 156-acre potato and dairy farm in rural Michigan and, after her father passed away when she was 12, her mother arranged for her to get a driver’s license to take over the family’s Ford Model T. Dunning then fell into the 1930 Cadillac after a friend told her about the abandoned car during the 1950s. She also owned a 1930 Packard and a 1966 Cadillac Coupe de Ville.
Dunning consistently described herself as “born with gasoline running through my veins.” It would have been an immense pleasure to know her personally. All the best to the Dunning family during this time.
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I had the pleasure to meet her a few years ago and a major show I attended. She had the Packard and was the real deal.
She even at over 100 at the time could still change plugs and oil. Her driving was limited to side roads and limited access road but she was still driving in safe conditions.
Sad to see her gone and I hope who ever ends up with the cars will care for them as she did.
Margaret Dunning was at the 2012 Pebble Beach Concours and seemed perfectly comfortable threading her 1930 Packard through the heavy crowd after going to the podium. If my memory is correct Jay Leno gave her an award then and she just visited his garage only a few days ago.
She was also on the PB 2012 tour and suffered a flat tire but did not change it herself even though she was proud to say that she did the oil changes herself. Truly a remarkable lady and an inspiration to us all.