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Richard Gregory Alan Weld

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Richard Weld Obituary

1944 - 2008 Greg Weld, the creative visionary who took racing and custom wheels to a new level died at 64, August 4, 2008. Weld died from undisclosed complications. Welds' revolutionary view and his unconditional desire allowed him to create the finest quality forged wheels in the industry. "Greg Weld was a visionary in the motorsports industry. He raced his way into the record books and into the hearts of many, but more than anything else, Greg Weld was a great friend and will be missed by everyone," said Bob Baker, President of the Sprint Car Hall of Fame. Greg's racing career was phenomenal. He won over 100 sprint car races including the 1963 Knoxville Nationals, the premiere event in sprint car racing and won the USAC National Sprint Car Championship at the age of 23. Weld raced in the USAC Championship Car series in the 1965-1972 seasons, with 36 career starts, including the 1970 Indianapolis 500 and qualified as the fastest rookie qualifier. He finished in the top ten 11 times, with his best finish in 4th position in 1970 at Sacramento. He was also the 1967 USAC Sprint Car Series champion. Greg Weld was also an entrepreneur with a driven desire to build his company and see his goals become reality. In 1970, Greg retired as a professional racer and founded Weld Wheel Industries. Greg started Weld Wheels with $2300 he'd saved from racing and the simple idea of making Sprint Car wheels that performed better. Greg manufactured forged alloy wheels for various vehicles, including racecars, and was an active sponsor of the United States Auto Club series, NHRA and IHRA. In January 2007, Greg started a new company, Greg Weld Competition Wheels. His continuous investments in technology, research and development and talented people positioned Weld to be a pioneer and undisputed leader in the aftermarket industry. Greg Weld was honored during his life as was inducted into numerous Hall's of Fame including the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame in 1998. Survivors include his wife, Deb, former wife, Marilyn Brockman-Weld, daughter, Christian Weld-Brown and sons, Taylor and Brock. He also leaves behind sisters, Delores Wesley, and Marilyn Burasco, and brother, Ricky. Greg Weld is also survived by his grandchildren, Marin Brown, Sophia Brown, Spencer Brown, Harley Weld, Quinton Weld, Aiden Weld, Lola Weld and numerous nieces and nephews. Weld was predeceased by father Taylor "Pappy" Weld, mother Ella Weld and brothers Jerry and Kenny. Services will be held on Friday, August 8, at 10 a.m. at the Kansas City Baptist Temple, 5460 Blue Ridge Cut Off, Raytown, MO 64133 (816) 358-1515. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Central Auto Racing Boosters "C.A.R.B." 8613 Winchester, KCMO, 64138, Attn.: Bob Reber. Arr.: Park Lawn Funeral Home (816) 523-1234.

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Published by Kansas City Star on Aug. 6, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
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James E. Combs III

December 5, 2021

I was privileged to work for Greg as Chief Engineer, and was deeply involved in all expansions and every
major project. It was truly a mountain top experience. Greg was a wonderful employer and
friend, and really treated me special. I worked for him 3 times, because he wore me out (LOL) and
I'd have to go someplace else to "rest up", but he always called me back for another project. I was able to do things for Weld Wheels that I didn't even know I could do, but Gregs excitement was
so contagious and challenging, that I just hauled off and did them anyway lol. Hes was always coming to me with a new project he had many times come up with, laying in bed, awake! The first thing he asked me was "how much will it cost and HOW SOON"?
I am 80 years old now, but I'll never forget the
amazing time(s) we had, and all the the wishes
we brought to fruition. In Loving Memory, Greg
JIM COMBS

Jerry and Amy (Blevins) Atkinson

August 28, 2008

We just found out today of Greg's passing and were truly shocked and saddened. We have many, many great memories working at Weld Racing. You could say Greg had a big part in bringing our lives together. We will never forget him. Taylor, Brock and Christian, our thoughts are with you and your entire family. God Bless.

Nina Waters-Castillo

August 27, 2008

My dad and uncle{Jr. & Doc Waters}
use to run against him back in the day.The car they had was 7 JR.
The Good Old Days.

Darlene Eberle

August 21, 2008

I would like to send my heartfelt sympathies out to the Weld family at the loss of Greg. I and my parents use to go the the races at Lakeside, Riverside and Olympic and see all the brothers race there every weekend back in the 1960's all of the brothers will be missed by all who knew them. I really do miss not going to the races back in the old days they were the best time I ever had.

David poff

August 20, 2008

Greg was a true freind of mine, an employer, mentor,racing coheart .... I was employed by Weld wheels in 1982, and have contracted to the various adventures, and work as the track welder at I-70, up until April of 2008. I have installed equipment of all kinds, some with lots of modifications. once as an employee, Greg would come in out of the shop that Cliff Lawerance and I was working in, to check on the progress of a spoked wheel as it was going thur various stages of R&D. The spokes were to be bent one way or the other, as the work slowly progressed it was very surprising anyone could notice, the very small changes as the spokes were tweeked ! Cliff L. told me Greg could see a ".030" bend change in a spoke. At that point I was in fear, that if my fabrication, abilities were not raised a couple of levels I may be looking for a new job. To this day I think as doing a job, if Greg were looking over my shoulder would he approve!
Greg knew how much I loved racing, and I was included in his circle of racing friends, just a few month ago his secretary called and said Greg would like you to come down to the plant for a small group lunchen. Was I ever impressed to be considered by GREG to be part of that elete group, I'll never forget it. One small thing, as an employee for one year, and a contractor for near 25 yrs. he has probably paid. me, nearly a million dollars. I have on several occasion discussed business, with Greg, and he was always ready willing and able to give good advice, as only a friend could do. He was a true friend that will never be replaced. My thoughts and Prayers go out to the family, this was not and will not be a small loss. David Poff

Richard Meiners

August 11, 2008

i was always amazed and jealous of the cars greg drove to high school. i can remember looking down, through the louvers at his olds engine with four duces in his '52 ford. i also appreciated the respect and admiration he and kenny had for each other. both are missed. richard meiners '63 paseo

Robert Kirch

August 10, 2008

Sorry for the loss. He was a great driver. I went to the lakeside speeway every friday night just to see him and his brothers. He will be missed.

Jerry Brown

August 10, 2008

It is with sadness that we have heard that we have lost Greg and we give you our heartfelt sympathy. In working for Greg and knowing him was always exciting and challenging because his energy and full throttle process was always in the fore front. Greg touched many people’s lives and he will be greatly missed by both business and private acquaintances.

scott zorn

August 9, 2008

Dear Weld family sorry about your loss greg was always nice to me when he wold come out to the plant my family and i are keeping your family in prayers.

Jackie (Sleyster) Burke

August 8, 2008

To: Weld Family sending a gentle hug’s your way let you know you’re in my heart today and always. We think of all happy memories though friendship – work- employee – business. And all the great times we’ve had. And Deb remembers Skip will always be stool penguin. Taylor, Brock, Christian, and special friend Dee. Please know you are in our thought and prayers. To all Greg’s grandchildren, kept grandfather close to your heart because you where star in is heart. Life brings tears, smiles and memories. The tears dry, the smiles fade, but the memories live on forever.

Russ Barnes

August 8, 2008

To The Weld Family,

I grew up with heroes, AJ, PJ and many more, but Greg always was very important in my fanbook. For a short time while living in Wisconsin I built sprints and modified’s and sold Greg's wheels. Other than seeing him race at Syracuse, I never met him, but I always kept track of his results. He is probably warming up at some track in Heaven about now with many of the other greats. As with other heroes, as long as fans are alive he will always be with us.

My sympathy goes out to your family at your loss.

Stephanie Persch

August 8, 2008

To the Weld Family: I'm so sorry for your loss. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.

JANET OLSON

August 8, 2008

DEB
SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. I'M PRAYING THAT GOD WILL COMFORT YOU AND GIVE YOU PEACE. I WISH I COULD BE THERE FOR YOU BUT KNOW THAT I CARE AND THAT I AM JUST A PHONE CALL AWAY.
MATTHEW5:4
MAY GOD BLESS EACH PERSON THAT LOVED GREG AT THIS TIME OF LOSS

Karolyn Carver

August 8, 2008

Greg knew how to win first or better!

Sparky & Karolyn Carver

Mary (Bledsoe) Snider

August 8, 2008

I worked at Weld Wheels from 96 to 99, starting out as the Account Rep and moving to the shipping department/warehouse and then the Credit Manager for Greg. I loved working for Greg and I loved his smile and humor. I also loved watching his business sense. I have herad about Greg through the years and I last head he was doing well. I am shocked to here about his passing, my dad also passed away April 28 of this year. So my thoughts are with the whole family at this time. I know how much I miss my dad and I know Greg will also be missed dearly. I will miss hearing about him and he will always be in my thoughts.

Connie & Kenny BesT

August 8, 2008

My thoughts are with the Weld family, as a former employee, it was a pleasure being part of the Weld team. Marilyn, Taylor, Brock, and Christian - my God bless you all. Greg was a wonderful person, he will be dearly missed.

August 8, 2008

To the Weld family,
Really sorry for your lost, our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Ramon Radillo & Family

kay m

August 7, 2008

I am so sorry for the great loss....I found this out from Stacy. Blessings to all.
Kay (Star)

Dennis Forbis

August 7, 2008

To the family - I'm sorry to hear of your loss. I knew Greg from Paseo, class of '62

Cookie Mehok

August 7, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with the Weld family, for your loss. I got to know Greg while John worked for him. He was a very talented person and a good friend to John.

Dan & Cathy Rowe

August 7, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May God Bless the Weld family during this hard time. Love you.

Carla Silvers

August 7, 2008

To the Weld's: You have been in my thoughts this week, especially Marilyn, Brock, Taylor, and Christian. I'm sending my thoughts and prayers to you. I will never forget Greg's smiling face and his love for his family. Angie and I are thinking of you at this time. May God Bless You and Comfort You and Grace You with His Peace. Sincerly, Carla Silvers.

James E. Brown and Family

August 7, 2008

We are so very sorry for your loss. You are all in our thoughts and prayers and my God touch you and comfort you during your time of loss.

David Wilson

August 7, 2008

A Great Legacy to our SEVEN OAKS neighborhood...our city and our state. Greg was a touchstone to greatness for many of his childhood peers...From the 39th st. and Paseo High crew...R.I.P.

Stephanie Wilson

August 7, 2008

Having grown up around racing at Olympic, Riverside, Old Lakeside and I-70, it's sad to see all the great ones pass, but as my dad, Tom Wilson, had told me when one of his racing buddies passed away: That isn't thunder you're hearing, that's them coming out of turn 4. I know Greg's running the track 'upstairs', Bob Brown's got the back gate, Jim McMurray's on the front chute, Dad's announcing, Virginia Nelson's keeping score, and Pappy and Ella are watching from the press box as Jerry, Kenny, Tom Karrick and all the others we have lost, are coming out of turn 4.

Annette and Randy Haynes

August 7, 2008

Marilyn and the rest of the family, Randy and I send our condolences on your loss. Greg was an interesting man, and we always enjoyed the Weld Halloween parties! May Greg rest in peace.

Daniel Wilson

August 6, 2008

Greg was a great driver, before he
became a driver he was a good baseball player in the old neighborhood. We won our division twice while he played first base on the Monroe Avenue Baptist Baseball Team.
His mother was a great Sunday School teacher. He will be greatly missed by all.

LaDonna Markworth

August 6, 2008

I am so sorry for your loss.

Valerie Sommer

August 6, 2008

Deb, please accept my heartfelt sympathy in your loss of Greg. It was my pleasure being part of his healthcare team. Greg was a professional and a gentleman with a warm smile; a testament for many.

Shirley (Agronin) Reischman

August 6, 2008

I'm very sorry for your loss. Greg and I were classmates at Paseo.

Phil, Lori and Perry Worden

August 6, 2008

I knew Greg as his one-time banker at Weld Wheel Industries. Passion was a defining trait for Greg, one that I always admired. He was such an innovator for the industry and I know many who worked closely with him who had great admiration for that passion and for how he cared for those who were part of the company. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, especially Taylor, Jennifer, Harley and Quinn.

DOUG DUBIN

August 6, 2008

GREG WAS A GREAT RACER AND BUSINESS MAN. HE WAS ALSO ONE OF "'' THE GOOD GUYS '''. VERY SINCERE AND WELL GROUNDED . HE AND I GRANDMOTHER'S WERE SISTERS. MY THOUGHTS ARE WITH HIS FAMILY.
DOUG DUBIN..PASEO CLASS OF 62

Donna (Lindsey) Phillips

August 6, 2008

As a Paseo High School Class of '62 classmate, I grieve the loss of one of our own. Greg was a special person with a great big smile, on his face and in his heart. My thoughts are with his family and his classmates. We'll miss him.

Jason Willard

August 6, 2008

My heart goes out to the entire Weld family for your loss.

MARTY MUSTEEN

August 6, 2008

TO THE WELD FAMILY  --- I HAVE KNOWN AND BEEN AROUND GREG FOR ''YEARS''  SO SORRY TO SEE YOU HAVE HIS LOSS.        MARTY MUSTEEN    (MR. CORVETTE)

adam wiley

August 6, 2008

Greg was an inspiration to all of us in so many ways. he was a testiment to the strength of the human spirit, and will be missed by many.
sincerely,
Adam Fisher

Ray Cunningham

August 6, 2008

I'm sorry to hear of Greg's passing.
He was one the great inovators in sprint car racing history,as well as one of the best drivers. And for this fan, he was one my all time favorite drivers.

Charles Pitts

August 6, 2008

Greg and I were good friends at Paseo High. All of us were so proud of him as he progressed with his racing career. When he opened Weld Wheels I was one of his first customers. He made custom wheels for my company, Desert Fox Dune Buggies, and each one was a work of art. Greg was a great friend, a fantastic racer, and a terrific businessman and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him. Our deepest sympathy to his family in this very difficult time - you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Michael B. Snyder

August 6, 2008

To the Weld Family:

Greg was a classmate and, in a small way, a good friend. "May his soul be bound up in the bonds of life and may he repose in peace." (From the traditional Jewish prayer at a funeral).

Richard Crouch

August 6, 2008

I was one of Greg's first employes and it was a great experience. I am saddened for his family. I was lucky to know Greg and his brothers may they rest in peace.

Joe Booth Jr

August 6, 2008

My thoughts and prayers go out to the Weld Family. May God give you comfort in this time of mourning.

Ross Wiley

August 6, 2008

Greg was a great boss, mentor, and friend. I learned so much just being in the shadow of his creativity, and I’m sure all could relate more than a few stories of his passionate visions.
Above all Greg had a heart. When my wife passed away, Greg (as well as his family Debbie, Taylor, Brock, and Christian) took care of my family like no other friend, and for that I truly loved my friend Greg.

COME TO ME
God saw you getting tired, and a cure was not to be, so He put his arms around you and whispered, “Come to Me.” With tearful eyes we watched you, and saw you pass away, and although we loved you dearly, we could not make you stay. A golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes the best.

Your Friend,
Ross

Dan McLaughlin

August 6, 2008

It was with great sadness that I heard of the passing of an old friend, past employer, and indusrty associate, Greg Weld. Greg was a genuine friend to many in and out of the industry who will be deeply missed for his passion and dedication to the wheel industry. I had the privilege to work under Greg twice for nearly 10 years and while we had our disagreements, he was a mentor to many and taught me much about the wheel business and how to survive. Greg was a unique individual and provided many people an opportunity to suceed in this business and for that I am grateful to him and most importantly, for his friendship. May god bless and grace his family and friends during this difficult time. May Greg rest in peace in the arms of our Lord and savior.

David Engebretson

August 6, 2008

I am sorry to hear of Greg,s passing, I did not know him as well as Jerry. We raced together on the old Dusty IMCA 1/2 miles. Good times.
Dave Engebretson

Dr. Cynthia Willis-Esqueda

August 6, 2008

I consider myself very forunate to have seen Greg Weld race when I was a child. My uncle, Bill Fiser, was a flag man, at several racetracks during the late 50's and 60's. So, I saw many race nights with the Weld family involved. My cousin, Janice, was even a "trophy girl" (literally, she was about 10), and it was one of the highlights of her childhood. I appreciate the wonderful memories, and my heartfelt sympathy goes to the Weld family.

Vance Long

August 6, 2008

R.I.P. MY FRIEND

Denise Small (lamb)

August 6, 2008

To the Weld family I am so sorry for your loss. I grew up at Olympic, Lakeside and Riverside race tracks watching my father Bill Lamb race along side the Weld brothers. These life experiences and joys are the reasons I still enjoying racing today. You were a great contriburtor to this sport and an inspiration I am sure for generations to come. God keep and bless your family during their time of grief

Brenda (Nenno) Reed

August 6, 2008

Weld Family, I am saddened to hear of your loss. I spent many a weekend with my father at Olympic Stadium watching Jerry and Kenny race (I even got to steer Jerry's car one night). I did not know Greg very well, but I did admire him. My husband and I also went to school with Ricky.

God bless you at this time and know that Greg is in a better place

Judy Soutar (Audsley)

August 6, 2008

I graduated with Greg from Paseo and always admired his talents. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time.

Marilyn Loder (Nevey)

August 6, 2008

I have very fond memories of Greg as we attended Paseo High together. He was always very kind and fun. So sorry to hear about his passing and will keep his family in prayer.

Susan Miller

August 6, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with Greg's family. I graduated from Paseo '62 and Greg was in many of my classes. Even though we "ran" in different circles, Greg was always so friendly and nice to me....he always had a smile and kind word. I know you will miss him terribly.

Judy Beth & Larry Rush

August 6, 2008

We are remembering many fun times and our thoughts are being sent your way today as we all reflect on Greg's life.

Orville Jenkins

August 6, 2008

Greg gained my admiration as a high school friend and classmate during our days at Paseo, and it became obvious at later class reunions that his success in life had never made him pretentious. My condolences to his family.

Peggy Swezy

August 6, 2008

So sorry of your loss. John would have wanted to sign your book, he loved the Weld family, so I will do so for both of us. Your family is in my prayers. Peace be with you.

Trudy Hall

August 6, 2008

Paseo High School Class of '62 classmates are saddened by Greg's passing. He was admired by all of us and was one of our "special" guys. We express our heartfelt condolences to family, friends and all those who were touched by Greg's life. Greg, your wonderful spirit will still be felt at our reunions.

Bruce Hack

August 6, 2008

First, my thoughts and prayers are with Deb, Marilyn, Dee, Taylor, Brock and Christian and entire Weld Family. Mr. Weld was a very special person who people gravitated to and who always earned peoples respect and loyalty. Greg always seemed down to earth to me and always treated me with the utmost respect. It is so sad to see a man with so many resiliencies and zest for living leave us so soon. I can’t imagine how many lives Greg has touched in a positive way. He will truly be missed.

Karen (Brown) Green

August 6, 2008

Dear Weld Family,
Racing is a way of life, I know dad, Bob Brown, Greg and Pappy are talking over great times, the times we all miss.

Pat Crownover

August 6, 2008

I also grew up in the old neighborhood and went all thru school with Greg. There are a lot of great memories, and, the races were always the best when a Weld was involved. My condolences to the entire family, Greg will be sorely missed. (O'Rourke)

Liz Mason

August 6, 2008

I was fortunate to work for Greg at Weld Racing and have many wonderful memories of my 5 years with the company. We worked hard and had fun in the process. He attracted many excellent employees, some I am still in touch with to this day. I am saddened by this loss that occurred much too soon for his family. My condolences.

Rick Spencer

August 6, 2008

Greg was truly an inovator when it came designing and building race wheels. He will truly be missed.

Loretta Fitzgerald

August 6, 2008

To the Weld Family, I am sorrowed to hear of Greg's passing. I can remember him as a teenager working at the Garage on 27th St. and his first years racing at Riverside along with Butch and Kenny. Although we are all a long way from 27th St in miles and time, the Weld family are still instilled in our minds, they inspired many of us to continue to be race fans through out the years.
My condolences to all, God's Blessings to you. with love, Loretta Fitzgerald

Torie Albert-Carrillo

August 6, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with the Weld family.

Greg was a wonderful person and will be truly missed.

Ron Marshall

August 6, 2008

Sorry to hear about Greg's passing. He was a pioneer in the racing industry and one of the good guys. My prayers are with his family

August 6, 2008

So sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers.

Bob Goulden and family

Carol Martinez (McMurray)

August 6, 2008

I remember the times at the race tracks when my dad (Jim McMurray) raced with him. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
The McMurray Family

Martha Gaulden

August 6, 2008

I grew up in the neighborhood and went through school with Greg and Kenny. Our condolensences go out to the family at this untimely death. Martha and Jim Gaulden (Mestdagh)

Tom Schaeffer

August 6, 2008

My prayers are with the Weld family. I lost my Father a year ago and he was a huge fan of the Welds', Greg in particular. Although Dad didn't know Greg personnally he admired him a great deal. When I was just a kid; me, my Dad, and his Dad (Grandpa) would frequent Olympic, Riverside, and Lakeside Speedway. We always enjoyed watching the hometown boys' take the checkers. Greg, Kenny, and Rick gave us something to cheer for. I can remember going to the store off Independence Ave. and looking at the wheels with my Dad. The products were the best in the business. Being a Kansas City native made us proud to root for the "hometown crowd". The Weld family is Kansas City/Midwest auto racing and their accomplishments are legendary. Greg will be missed, a true pioneer. Gods' speed.

Randy Sandifer

August 6, 2008

Greg, you were a great person and I had alot of respect for you has a business person and just being a regular guy. I learned alot from you in the short time I worked for you. You will be missed b y many. Sincerely,

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