In Loving Memory Of
Dale Earnhardt
April 29, 1951 - February 18, 2001
On the race tracks he was known as "The Man in Black" and "The Intimidator". But no matter what his nickname was, everyone knew Dale Earnhardt. I still find it hard to believe that Dale is no longer with us. He has accomplished a lot during his racing career. He got his first Winston Cup ride in 1975 but didn't compete regularly until 1979. He won the "Rookie of the Year" title. Then in 1980, he won his first of seven Winston Cup Championships and becoming the only driver to win back-to-back Rookie and Championship Titles. That was the start of it all.
Whether you loved him or loved to hate him, Dale was the best driver on the track. He also had the respect of the other drivers and crew teams. Dale has tied with Richard Petty in the most championships, had 76 career victories and in 1998 he finally accomplished his biggest feat ever after 20 long years...he won the Daytona 500. Every driver, every team member greeted Dale down the longest pitroad of his career to Victory Lane. Everyone, including the people who didn't like Earnhardt, wept with joy for this man, the "Man in Black", the "Intimidator".
Dale, born Ralph Dale Earnhardt to Ralph and Martha Earnhardt, grew up in Kannapolis, North Carolina. Just recently he became part owner of the Kannapolis Intimidators baseball team. He was also a proud husband, father and grandfather and loved his family dearly. He loved and cared about his fans too. I have heard of two stories where he helped out two of his fans. I'm sure there are many people out there with their own "Dale Earnhardt" stories. Keep those memories close to your heart and Dale will always be with you.
My heartfelt condolences go out to his wife, Teresa; kids, Kerry, Kelley King, Dale Jr. and Taylor Nicole; and his mother, Martha. Also to Michael Waltrip, Steve Park, the employees of DEI, Richard childress and employees of RCR and all the NASCAR drivers, friends and fans. Godspeed Dale.
Please help Teresa fight against the release of Dale's autopsy photos. Please visit:
http://www.PetitionOnLine.com/nophotos/
and sign the petition. Teresa and family has a right to mourn in peace and to try to recover from the shock of his untimely death.
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Copyright 2001 by Dawn's NASCAR Winston Cup Racing