Ernie Derr, 12 time IMCA Stock Car Champion, passed away on January 8th in Keokuk Ia. He was 92 years old.
When you say a driver is probably the best stock car driver in town it doesn't mean much unless your from Keokuk Ia. Some of the drivers he battled for IMCA championships with include his brother in law 2 time USAC and 3 time IMCA Champion Don White, 2 time IMCA Champion and winner of 14 NASCAR cup series races in 103 starts Dick Hutcherson, 2 time ARCA and USAC Champion Ramo Stott, 3 time ARCA Champion Ron Hutcherson, all from Keokuk. When you can your the best driver in Keokuk you have said something.
Ernie started running STP sponsorship in the early 60s. His red and white Dodges with the big STP stickers and crew in the STP pajamas where always the car to beat when they pulled into a race track. I guess it is only fitting the he and Andy Granatelli should both pass away within 2 weeks of each other.
Ernie is the KING of IMCA stock car racing.
Now when I hear thunder rolling through the heavens I will smile because I will picture Ernie Derr in that big hemi battling Dick Hutcherson in his 427 ford on that big half mile in the sky.
Rest In Peace Ernie, and thanks for the memories.
Ernies obituary will be at the following link http://www.dejongsfuneralhome.com/obituary/121655/Ernest-Derr/
updated by @jim-morris: 12/05/16 04:00:58PM
