The family of my dear friend and mentor for 28 years, has asked me to share this with the community: Obituary for Donald E. Waite: A Legend on Wheels Donald E. Waite, 94, of Temple City, California, has taken his final lap down the race track. He was born on the same property where he passed peacefully on February 28, 2024. His departure leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who knew him, as he leaves behind a legacy of boundless love, creativity and racing records. Born on August 6, 1929, Don was a lifelong resident of Temple City, where his deep family roots intertwined with the community he cherished. From a very early age Don was smitten by the pursuit of speed but he was not just any car enthusiast; he was a rare individual who accepted the challenge of speed and the creation of vehicles to defeat existing records. His racing adventures began before he reached 18 years old with setting records at the Southern California Dry Lakes and Bonneville. Don was ironically nicknamed the “dumb kid” by Paul Scheifer a fellow racer and competitor due to his young age, amazing engineering skills, record breaking vehicles, and performance at the dry lakes when he arrived with his rear engine modified 27 Ford roadster. The late 40s and 50s saw him racking up records and magazine covers—yes, he graced the cover of Hot Rod Magazine not once, but twice! Clearly, the camera loved him as much as he loved speed. But it wasn't all about racing for Don; he also had a soft spot for his beloved Brittany Spaniels, who surely thought they were the real stars in the field events. They competed side by side, proving that while he may have loved the thrill of the racetrack, there was nothing quite like the joy of watching his furry friends chase after glory. When he wasn't breaking records and winning championships on the quarter mile tracks or cheering on his dogs, Don could be found water skiing ,driving his wild water pumper dune buggy or exploring national parks. He was always seeking adventure. As an accomplished engineer, he played a significant role in aerospace projects throughout his career, but his heart truly belonged to Edelbrock Engineering, where he was the VP of Research and Development. There, he helped develop specialized parts for car enthusiasts who were smitten by the speed. Don leaves behind a family that will forever cherish his vibrant spirit: three children, six grandchildren, and one great granddaughter, along with countless friends in the racing community who will raise a toast to his creativity and love for speed (and perhaps a dog treat or two in his honor). Join us for a Celebration of Life event at the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum 1101 W. McKinley Ave in Pomona on January 25, 2024 Please PM me for more details. Don's first 150 mph ride at El Mirage 10-22-1949
If you would like more info or RSVP, please PM me or send email to: donwaitememorialsctanhra@gmail.com
The Jalopy Journal
