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Racers and fans raise nearly $3000 to bring former racer Dan Ramey back home
by Bill Sullivan

Dan Ramey Jr. joins the 2008 championship car owner John Taylor, driver Colby Wiesz and crew chief Andy Palmer Saturday night JPM Photo by Steve Lamothe

Many knew Ramey from his racing days when he competed in stock cars at Placerville Speedway. Others knew him from his business, DSR Graphics and Signs which provided graphics to uncountable race cars in multiple venues. For Dan Ramey, the friendships with his clients and competitors always outweighed the profits. Away from the track he was a mentor to numerous people, not only in racing but in a number of charitable service organizations.

Following his sudden passing, it was learned that Ramey had very limited or no insurance to cover the expenses that will be incurred following his loss. Such expenses include transportation from Las Vegas to El Dorado County as well as the cost of services that will easily reach into the thousands of dollars.

In the wake of tragedy, the racing community always manages to come together and assist those in need. Saturday night was no exception. Several race car drivers participated in a helmet pass in the grandstands during intermission and raised nearly $3000 to bring their friend home.

An emotional Pam Ramey bids farewell to her former husband and late racer Dan Ramey during a special tribute at Placerville Speedway Saturday night. JPM Photo by Steve Lamothe

Prior to the opening race, an emotional tribute to Ramey helped fans and drivers cope with his shocking death. The event included a speech about Ramey’s contributions to the community while three drivers performed a rare but appropriate ceremonial checkered flag lap on the track. Those drivers were Colby Wiesz, Danielle Clauson and Ramey’s son, Dan Jr. who borrowed a car for just to honor his father. Ramey’s former wife and friend, Pam Ramey participated, waving the green flag for the man she always called “Dancin’ Dan..”

The brief event provided some closure to the many people that had no opportunity to bid farewell to the man who touched so many lives. At the same time, the event educated those who hardly knew him and the true difference he made to the sport. It didn’t matter if they knew him or not, race fans of all ages quickly filled the helmets to help out.

“I never met Mr. Ramey but I knew the name out here, it seemed like he helped anyone who needed it around here,” said Jake Wallace, who was attending the final race night with his family. “This deal tonight brought tears to my eyes. Right after the speech I went over to the ATM so my two boys could contribute. That’s what I love about small town race tracks like this, they come together in a time for need and we are proud to be part of it here tonight.”

For the second generation Ramey, the response to Saturday’s event was overwhelming. Despite learning of the tragedy when a doctor answered his father’s cell pone Thursday morning, the Ramey came to the track in good spirits along with his mother, Dan’s former wife, Pam.

“I just can’t believe this night, this has been the most incredible night ever and I am so grateful,” said Ramey. “I cannot thank Padjen Motorsports, all of the fans and drivers enough for what they did here tonight for Dad. He loved this place so much and I know his spirit is here with us tonight. I will never forget this.”

At the conclusion of the night, Dan Jr. and his mother Pam were invited to victory lane where they joined Colby Wiesz, the driver of the #35 sprint car owned by John Taylor. Wiesz was crowned as the 2008 sprint car champion, marking the third consecutive championship for Taylor, one of Ramey’s very loyal friends and clients.

“I’ve known Dan for many years, and tonight he would normally be right here celebrating with us,” said Taylor . “He was a really great person and I’m going to miss his friendship. He was a very big part of this team and tonight was pretty tough for us.”

Ramey plans to continue the operation of his father’s racing related business, DSR Graphics in Cameron Park. The money raised on Saturday night has been placed into a trust fund set up by the friends of Dan Ramey. The account will remain open for additional contributions to be made. Dan Ramey’s funeral has yet to be arranged, according to his son they are hoping to hold the service at the fairgrounds in early October with the racing community very much involved.

Those wishing to contribute to the Dan Ramey Memorial Fund can do so by sending their donation to El Dorado Savings, 4040 El Dorado Road , Placerville , CA 95667 . Attn: Dan Ramey Memorial Fund, Reference # 013230560. Further information about Dan Ramey or the fund can be obtained by contacting Bill Sullivan at sullivanimages@sbcglobal.net