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Jim McLennan Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Jim McLennan
Don Smith
February 5, 2020
WAS A INTERESTING PARTNER
Warren Merriman
February 26, 2007
I was introduced to Jim by Mark Andermahr at the 2004 Pacific Coast Dream Machines in Half Moon Bay. I wish to express my condolences to his family for their loss.
Warren Merriman
Bill Turney
February 26, 2007
Jim was a special person to many, but he was a very special person to the "Speed Sport Group" from Tucson, Arizona. We all got to know him many years ago and valued his genuine friendship and were always happy to see his big smile.
We want all of his family to know that we will miss him but take comfort in knowing that he is now pain free. We know that he will greet us with his "signature smile" when we go to join him. Rest in peace Jim. Bill Turney for the Speed Sport Group.
Pat
February 17, 2007
More Fond Memories....
Dot..You & I being the only females on the charter plane to Bakersfield with all the "Old Organ Grinders" What a experience!!!
Also...Jim & Ella Fitzgerald teasing each other at the Fairmont Hotel Venetian Room.
Mark & Lori Sanguinetti
February 17, 2007
McLennan Family
Mr Mac always made the kids of Westmoor feel like part of his family. He had a special way of getting his point across, seeming like he knew when we were going to do somthing stupid. Years latter I now realize he would be there with us if he wasn't such a responsable father. GOD bless YOU Jim and rest in peace.
miles ed
February 17, 2007
my condolences to the mclennon family. every time i talk of the good times in my life jim and the pacers are involed,working on the cars in jim,s garage then going out to brother hood way and fire the rails up, or going around the corner to the whiffenpoof for a beer. the sport of drag racing lost a great person, a good man, and a great fan. ed miles san francisco pacers.
Mark Hovsepian, Dawn Mazi-Hovsepian
February 16, 2007
Fondest McLennan Family & Friends, we know that you are the reasons for Jim's great smile.
Our deepest sympathy,
Jim Fox
February 16, 2007
I didn't know Jim personally, but I know he was active in racing for as long as I can remember. He will be missed.
Jim Fox
Dave & Deanna Themoleas
February 16, 2007
Dear McLennan Family:
We want to express our deepest sympathy to your family. My memories of your dad was when he was in his hot red cars on Mariposa Ave, Daly City. Always smiling and waving to the Mariposa Gang (Themoleas, Murray's, Ferandez's and Valente's)as he sped by. My Father-in-Law, Ed Miles, always speaks of the good old days with the 55 Pacer's Racing Club. Your Dad will always be remembered in our hearts.
Diana (Giusti) Miley
February 15, 2007
My deepest sympathy to the McLennan family. I will never forget Halfmoon Bay Drag Strip and you allowing me to become a real racer, Giusti&Giusti the powder puff Queen. Thank you Jim!
A 55 Year Old Kid From The Excelsior
February 15, 2007
From
the kids that grew up in The Excelsior and went to Bal in the 1960's.
We thank you Jim McLennan for making us proud. You didn't know us, but
we sure the hell knew you! I personally will miss seeing you sitting in
your garage on my way to the Safeway.
Dorothy Mooneyham
February 15, 2007
My condolences to Dot, Bob, Sandy and Michael, Jim was a very courteous and kind man, he was alwys good to Gene and I at the races, he will be missed by all. May God Bless you all. Dorothy Mooneyham
Rudy, Diane, Chris, & Matt Perez
February 15, 2007
Dearest Dot, Sandy, Bob, Mike and the rest of this Irish clan.
"What can I say?". "With Deepest Sympathy", doesn't seem enough for the family right now. I am numb, at having to expierence the loss of Jim, my life-long friend of over 50+ years.
That awe whiz-bang "let's do it"
guy, who loved life and had so much energy. The love for hot rods and racing, that started it out for me from your home on Capital Ave.
I'll always remember Jim's big smile at meeting my 7 year old son Chris for the first time, putting him into the dragster, and asking him if he'd like to take a ride.
It has been a privilage of my life,
to have taken all of those 1000's of photos of everything, and everywhere we went, on and off the drag strips.
For me, the Smiling Irishman is an ache that will never leave.
Hugs & Love.
Jim Butler
February 15, 2007
I am sorry to here of Jim Mclennan's passing. My son Jonathan and I will never forget him. He was a very genuine person. My son at the age of 7 showed Jim his pinewood derby car at a race. Jim sat and talked with him about his car and never forgot my son recognizing him everytime we met at the races...I think the last time we talked was in 2002 ...He was a great inspiration to me and my son...Godspeed Jim Mclennan
Jon Lundberg
February 15, 2007
You could say that, as a drag racing announcer, I helped Jim sell food. I first met him through early editions of Drag News as we in the Midwest poured over results of those events wherat the Champion Speed Shop dragster gave good account and Al Caldwell waxed eloquent about Jim in Northern Briefs. We shook hands for the first time at the 1963 March Meet and remained friends thereafter. He was a charming and dear person with seemingly indefatigable spirit. I will miss him.
Danny "Buzz" Broussard
February 14, 2007
Our deepest condolences to Jim's wife and family. I met Jim in 1964 when Kent Fuller, Ongais, Carol Davis, Garrison and myself went up to Half Moon Bay. Of course Jim was the manager and was racing his little Chevy car. A nice man you would find no where else. I think we won the race, but the memory is not quite as good as it use to be. I met Jim's son through Adam Sorokin. I raced with Adam's dad Mike Sorokin. May Jim rest in peace. Danny "Buzz" Broussard
John, Sandy & Jonathan Smith
February 14, 2007
Dot, Bob, Sandy, Mike & Family,
We're so sorry to hear about Jim's passing. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Stephen & Danette Chudzinski
February 14, 2007
Dearest Dot, Bob, Sandy & Michael.
May the lord give you all peace that surpasses all understanding in your time of great need. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all today and always.
Ken Logan
February 14, 2007
I'm really going miss Jim, he was one of those people that I'm glad I had a chance to know, a true gentleman.
john batto
February 14, 2007
Will always remember his good advise at half moon bay
John Ewald
February 14, 2007
It has been one of my great honors to have known Jim and to photograph all his race cars since I was shooting for Lions. A class act and a real man's man. RIP my friend.
Pat Green
February 14, 2007
Dot, Mike, Bobby & Sandy,
I'm so sad that Jim is gone. Jim & Dot were so good to our family when we worked at Fremont & Champion. Those were some of the happiest days of my life. Some of the best times were after a rain-out at Fremont, when we'd all adjorn to the "Spina-Yarn". Great times. I'm so glad I had the opportunity to see you all in recent years. Please know you have always been one of my most favorite famlies. Love to you all.
Dick Kalivoda
February 14, 2007
First saw the Champion Speed Shop Dragster at Fremont in early '60s and then drove the Norton, Kalivoda, Hamlin AA/FD in late '60s at Fremont. Always remembered Jim, the dragster(s), and the track as being class operations.He will be missed. The Joker.
Brendan Murry
February 14, 2007
I will always remember the big guy with the red Champion speed shop hat with the big smile and his outstretched hand ready to shake your hand .I did not get to meet Jim until later in life ,but I knew who he was ;
He was one of the bay area hot rod ledgends. It was years before I was finally introduced. I will always treasure the moment... HI I'm Brendan Murry and Im honered to meet you ...Jim's snappy reply was I know who you are- your my hero ! That became our greeting for the next 18 years.I was floored when he said that to me .
As the years went by I always sought Jim out to say -How's my hero! We always laughed and we shared tidbits of each others lives.He had the knack or charm to always made me feel special ,and He was like that with everyone
Jim was a great father, leader and friend,and one of the guys you will remember the rest of your life.
I hope Jim knows he was my hero -Brendan
Don Ewald
February 14, 2007
In the scope of all things the drag racing family is a very small one. Anytime we lose a family member it is sad, but with the passing of Jim we lost a patriarch whos kind will never be seen again.
Volumes can be written of Jim's accomplishments and contributions over 5 decades as a racer, innovator, speed shop owner, father and friend. But I think what has been written here by all those who loved and admired him is the greatest testament of all.
My sincere condolences to his family and may his memory continue in their efforts to star in the sport of drag racing.
Jim Nicoll
February 14, 2007
I raced at Jim's tracks and against some of his cars and nowbody was as fair as he was.He will be truly missed however he left much drag racing behind. My sincere condolence to Jim's family.
Bob Brown
February 13, 2007
As a young teen, I'll never forget that little red Champion Speed Shop dragster at Fremont. Week after week the McLennans took on the big boys and showed them the way to the trailer much of the time.
Seems like it was just last week, but somehow 44 years have passed since then. The thrill of watching the McLennans run that car will stay with me forever. Thanks Jim, and thank you Bobby for what you're doing today with Nostalgia Top Fuel drag racing.
Dale&Linda Scalero
February 13, 2007
McLennan Family, Our prayers and thoughts are with you all.I just want to say that I still remember going to Fremont with Ricky,Jimmy,RC and Mike. To work the concession stand with them and Mike I can still hear your Dad telling me. Your going to get sick if you keep eating all that candy. I did.
Linda Mather
February 13, 2007
Jim McLennan's Beloved Wife & Family,
on behalf of the surviving family members of the late Bernie Mather, Esther, Christine, & Linda, I wish to express our sincere condolences at the loss of your Beloved Patriarch. His love will be with you always.
Most sincerely,
Ms. Linda Mather
Henry Walther
February 13, 2007
To the McLennen family.
My first encounter with Jim goes way back to when I was a young man growing up in Auburn and traveling down to the races in Lodi (Kingdon Drag Strip). He first captured my attention with the beautiful Champion Speed Shop dragster that he drove. I was fortunate that over the years I became friends with Jim. Although he will always be remembered as a gentleman, my number one remembrance of him will be of the great smile he always flashed when we would first see each other. It made you feel good to know that he was as happy to see you, as you were to see him. His words were always kind and caring, and there was usually laughter too. It is because of his unwavering warmth and class that today, as a much older person who is still racing, I continue to look up to Jim as an inspiration.
Thanks Jim for letting me be a small part of your world.
Regards,
Randy Bradford
February 13, 2007
Randy & Pop Bradford give to the family our condolinces. Thanks to Jim for all he gave to our sport of Drag Racing. Jim will be remembered for along time..
Randy & Pop "Bradfords AA/FA
Warren Walther
February 13, 2007
I moved to the Bay Area in 1968, and there is no doubt tha Jim is responsible for some of my fondest memories at places like Fremont.
Cub and Sharon Barnett
February 13, 2007
Dear Dot, Bobby, Sandy, Mike and families,
So many memories, where to start? We could start with the great racing memories or just bench racing, or the touching stories at Malloy's (or where ever), or just the enjoyment of your smiling face. The support that was always available from Jim and Dot be it with Joe and Nellie, Bud, Cub or any of our family members will always be cherished. Jim, you may have left this world, but you will never leave our hearts. Thanks, to all of you for being such great friends. Jim, give 'em the best!
Our love to you,
Cub and Sharon Barnett
Mike English
February 13, 2007
Thank you for all memories including a small block in T/F
Larry Anderson
February 13, 2007
I first met Jim while we were looking for the "Vagabond" dragster.We would see him at all the races and stop to talk . He always called us "The Kids" He was always intereseted in the restoration and what was new . The last time I talked to him was a year or so ago when We were trying to track down the old " Champion" car later to become the M&R speacil .I will miss he's smiling face and great stories. I found out by listing to his stories that he and my Dad raced out at the Great Hiway at the same time ..just differant car clubs ...Larry Anderson
Matt McNamara
February 13, 2007
Uncle Jim,
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.
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.
A golden heart, indeed! At every opportunity, we will recall the countless stories of how you filled our lives with your kindness and generosity. In my mind's eye, I can see you tipping your red Champion Speed Shop cap to us all as you are surrounded in God's loving care. We shall meet again, my good friend...we shall meet again.
Walt Stevens
February 13, 2007
Well this goes back into the 60,s. When we down here in the southern part of california, Would go up north to race, We always would
keep and eye on the little chevy
dragster, Because it would run off and kick your butt, Big time,
Will miss seeing see Jim at the races and will always remember the smile when you walk up to say, hello. Jims boys are the best in our sport of drag racing and we need to thank Him for bring them up the way he did, A super family. Bobbie and Mike, Always have the same smile when you meet them.
I Remember the day the the boys run that 5:82 at Bakersfield and from what I can remember, We walk over to Jim and he had a smile, bigger then I had ever seen before.
God Bless and my thoughts and prayers go out to the entire McLennan family. I will always
remember him.
With Love Walt Stevens
Wayne King
February 13, 2007
I first met Jim along with Don Smith at Half Moon Bay back in the late 50s helping Ernie Hashim, Bill Crossley and Howard Hilton on Hashims dragster. The first time I met Jim I still remember how he let a young kid be part of the goings on. The race was rained out so you know there had to be a party. Remember the Organ Grinders??? I sit here now at 65 years old........WoW where did it go??. I later raced the Champion Chevy many times. Alway a real racers racer. When you came to the Line to race Jim you had better be ready. HE WAS. Jim always enjoyed the Bakersfield Races and the Racers from that town. The Wool Growers, The Tam O Shanter. Always ready to have a good time.
I saw Jim the last time at the Reunion a couple of years ago. Had a very good chat about the good times and racing a long time ago. I would imagine Bernie Mather, Ernie, Ted , Pete, Al Caldwel and Jim are getting ready to talk Drag Racing
I will miss you my friend......You were a Good One...Rest in Peace
You and Your Family are in our Prayers
Wayne and Peggy King
One of the Boys From Bakersfield
Adam Sorokin
February 13, 2007
To the family of Jim McLennan,
I never got the opportunity to meet Jim McLennan but feel like I know what kind of man he was by the many stories Bobby tells of him. I never get tired of those stories! What a guy! He is a legend - And not many people get to be that.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire McLennan family.
With Love,
Adam Sorokin (driver for Bobby McLennan's Nostalgia Top Fuel Dragster) and Jenni Calcara
Jim Bresnahan & Stuart Corvin CAL-STEAM
February 13, 2007
With fond memories from...
Pat Smith
February 13, 2007
Dot...
Just a couple of memories (out of hundreds) from the past 50+ years.
January 1969..Puerto Rico.
Lake Mead in Las Vegas when Mickey Thompson was teaching Jim & Don how to water ski.
All those early mornings in the ticket booth when we were freezing our tails off.
Don driving all day from Bonneville so that he could be there for the birth of Michael as Jim had asked him to fill in for him until he got back.
And then you spending the night with Cathryn & Donna while your god daughter Lynn was born.
Take care good friend.
With much love.
Pat
Steven Nathan Roth
February 13, 2007
Mike,
Sorry to hear about your Fathers passing. He always had a good heart, and that is something you can't change on somebody, either they have a good heart or they don't !! and your Dad did, our
thoughts are with your's and your family. I will always remember Westmoor, Daly City and the races in Bakersfield
Pauline Earls
February 13, 2007
To the McLennan family:
Anyone who had anything to do with drag racing remembers Jim fondly. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.........especially all the Richmond area folks. May he rest in peace.
Bill & Carole Whelan
February 13, 2007
Dorothy and Family:
I have many many great memories of Jim, since opening day at Half Moon Bay Drag Strip, which our
"WINDERS" Car Club helped run, the first three years. Then there was Cotati Drag Strip, and Champion Speedway. But the fondest of all memories was seeing his smiling face at Champion Speed Shop, when I would make my weekly trips for parts. He always made everyone feel special, like you were a real part of the Drag Racing family. My heart goes out to all family members. Jim will be sadly missed.
Paul Waggoner
February 12, 2007
McLennan Families, my sorrow goes out to all of you. After reading the guest list what more can one say about a special man. He sure shared his life with many people and I hope the families appreciate the time he took with so many of us that were glad to call him a good friend. Sorry Jim I was afraid I wouldn't get the book done before you left us. I will get it done I promise you!
Gary & Joan (Driscoll) Knoeppel
February 12, 2007
I have so many great memories of the McLennan family and along with a lot of my friends at Westmoor High, our times working the races at Fremont were really special. Besides all the food we could eat and watching some great drag races, knowing both Jim and Dot was an honor. Years later after moving away from the Bay Area my husband and I discovered that Champion Speed Shop was racing again and we were so thrilled to go to the Nostalgia Drag races and cheer them on. Jim took time to talk about his racing team but always with that modest pride.
He was a true Irish gentleman.
To everyone who was fortunate to have known Jim, we truly hope that the loss you feel now in time will be replaced with graditude that he was a part of your life.
Chris Knight
February 12, 2007
My Deepest Sympathies to the Mc Clennan Family. Without exception Jim was the finest human being I was ever privileged to meet. Words are inadequate to describe such a multi-faceted and talented individual... He embodied integrity, loyalty, compassion, and generosity. He cherished his family, had a passionate abundance for life, fantastic sense of humor,an incredible memory. "They don't call me the hawk for nothing"! Jim could spin a story better than any presidential press secretary and had a joke repertoire he could have taken on the road. Hard working, fun loving, heck of a liar's dice player, always a gentleman, smart & genuinely humble...I could go on and on. I am one of the many, many people he influenced at an early age to go in a positive direction. The plain fact of the matter is that if you ever had the chance to meet Jim your life was enhanced. Period, end of story.
Louie and Joni Poole
February 12, 2007
Dot, Bobby, Mike, Sandy: You know our thoughts are with you. We have so many memories. He was one helluva great guy....as is all of his family!!
Ken and Karen Lucia
February 12, 2007
Dot, Bob, Sandi, Mike and family,
With our deepest sympathy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Nancy Stich
February 12, 2007
Dear Dorothy and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time. I know that Jim is in a much better place and without pain and suffering. We certainly go back many, many years and we had such fun and good times together, visiting at your house with ALL our kids. There were plenty of them!!! Jim will certainly be missed by many. May God bless you Dorothy for taking such good care of him.
Love, Jerry, Nancy Stich and family
Mendy Fry
February 12, 2007
To the McLennan family,
Each time I saw Jim, he made me feel like family. His smile and warmth were contagious, and his big bear-hugs made you feel safe. I have missed seeing him at the races, and am very saddened that his physical presence will not visit us there again. But his spirit, well, that's another story...He is alive in my heart, and I will truly miss him.
Tom McLennan
February 12, 2007
My Uncle.
Boy this is hard. Where do I start? Jim was like a second father to me, and most people who saw us together for the first time thought he WAS my Dad. I have so much to thank him for. He was a huge influence in shaping me into the man I became. He put me to work to help him build Champion Speedway when I was 13 years old driving the water truck, which by the way had no brakes (it was a good thing there wasn't a whole lot I could hit out there). When the motor blew in it, he just told Bobby and I to pull it out. When the grader lost the clutch, he had us fix that too! I thank him for teaching me what a hard day of work is and what it means. I love him for exposing me to Drag Racing and the many friends and priceless stories that have come from it. One of my favorite things was being at the races and having so many of his old friends and aquaintances come by our pit to see him. Some of the people didn't even know him, they just remembered the car back in "the day". He would always greet them with that big smile of his and listen to their story, and then add something to it that they did not know. Fathers would bring their kids by just to meet him. He was always just as gracious with strangers as he was was with friends.
I found it very fitting that I was at the Winternationals this weekend where Bobby was invited to run the race car in an exhibition for the upcoming NHRA Hot Rod Reunion, when the word came of Jim's passing. So in true Jim McLennan form we made a pass of 5.70 seconds @ 261 MPH, making our car only the second Nostalgia Front Engine car to go over 260 MPH. And for those of you wondering, it was a clean run, with no damage! The huge crowd loved it, and I'm sure Jim was very proud of us.
I will miss him so much, but I know he is in a much better place, free from pain and suffering. He is once again together with family and friends that he missed so much after their passing. He is now free to spend eternity with them.
I love you Jim. Until we are together again, give it more lead, up the percentage and keep it straight down the middle.
Gene @ Loretta Kirkeby
February 12, 2007
I still remember Half Moon Bay, Cotati Drag strips and all the Great
Lunches in Sonoma we had a few years back.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.
Jim Parks
February 12, 2007
Dot,Bobby, Michael & Sandy.
My deepest sympathy goes to you all for your loss. I truly admired Jim and considered him a friend. He was always so generous and kind to me and I'm thankful that I was able to see him recently. I will miss him. I will see you Wed & Thur for the services and a hug.
Jim Handy (Fotos By TJ)
February 12, 2007
Dot,
My heartfelt sympathy to you and the family. My three years as Fremont Track Photographer (1967-1970) for you and Jim will always have a special place in my heart.
Gary Fulmer
February 12, 2007
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Jed McNamara
February 12, 2007
Rest in Peace Uncle Jim. I'll always remember the good times at Sac Raceway and the rides he used to give us kids on his red scooter. His warm greeting and friendly smile had a way of making you feel important.
With Love,
Jed
Jeanice McNamara
February 12, 2007
My Siblings and I are blessed to say and mean that all of our uncles were warm, generous and funny men. I think we thought that was the way all families were! But when I got into high school and enjoyed some measure of popularity because my Uncle Jim owned Champion Speedway, I knew I was in a special family! What fun it was to learn math at Half Moon Bay Dragstrip even before that. No cash register to tell you how much change to give back! What fun it was to stop at The Wagon Wheel on the way home from the races where Kathy and I would pretend the cute racers were looking at us! Then, years later when my husband and I moved to the Boston area, Aunt Dot wrote to me to let me know that if things didn't work out, she and Uncle Jim would send plane tickets for me and my son Matt. Ironically, my husband Brian was already one of Jim's biggest fans and remained so! Fast forward to 1989 back in California building a house in rural Wilton. Uncle Jim and John Richardson came up to do the rough plumbing. What a special time - learning to weld copper and interpreting my husband's Bostonian accent for them. Then later he and Mike came up with two plumbers and set all the fixtures. Mind you, of course, he wouldn't take a penny for anything! He always made everyone in his life feel special, didn't he, and anyone who knew him was blessed. Such a bittersweet time.
Sandi Murray
February 12, 2007
McLennan Family,
Our deepest sympathy to all of you, Jim was a dear friend of my father Ray Murray and I will always remember going with my dad and working in the consession stand at Fremont Raceway, what a blast for a young kid, Thanks for the memory and for always being there for my father.
Sandi Murray & Paul Denno
FRED SANDERSON
February 12, 2007
DEAR DOT,BOBBY,MIKE,AND SANDI...MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU..I`LL MISS UNCLE JIM TERRIBLY,HE WAS ALWAYS THERE FOR ME WHEN I NEEDED HIM . I`M SORRY I CAN`T SEEM TO FIND THE WORDS TO EXPRESS MY SADNESS AT HIS PASSING,I JUST HOPE THAT WHEM MY TIME COMES WE`LL SEE EACH OTHER AGAIN.
Jeff Miller
February 12, 2007
To the entire McClennan family,
Jim will be missed by all of us, but the memories will live forever.Who can forget the reuniting each year of the McClennans and Millers in Bakersfield getting ready for the March Meet or the famous food fights the Friday after Thanksgiving at the McClennan house. Now Jim has joined Jack and Marvin in a better place. Wow, what stories will be told up there now! Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Barbara, Jeff, Bettye, Andrew, Mike, Patsy and Jay.
Tom McLennan
February 12, 2007
Uncle Jim.
Boy is this hard. Where do I start? Jim was like a second father to me, and most people who saw us together for the first time thought he was my dad.
I have so much to thank him for. He was such a huge influence in shaping me into the man I became. He put me to work to help him build Champion Speedway when I was 13 years old driving the water truck which, by the way had no brakes (it was a good thing there wasn't a whole lot I could hit out there). When the motor blew in it, he just told Bobby and I to pull it out. When the grader lost the clutch, he had us fix that too! I thank him for teaching me what a hard day of work is, and what it means. I love him for exposing me to drag racing and the many friends and priceless stories that have come from it. One of my favorite things was being at the races and having so many of his old friends and aquaintances come by our pit see him. Some of the people didn't even know him, they just remembered the car back in "the day". He would always greet them with that big smile of his and listen to their story and then add something to it that they did not know. Fathers would bring their kids by just to meet him. He was always just as gracious with strangers as he was with friends.
I found it very fitting that I was at the Winternationals this weekend where Bobby was invited to run the racecar in an exhibition for the upcoming NHRA Hot Rod Reunion when the news came of Jim's passing. So in true Jim McLennan form we made a pass of 5.70 sec. @ 261 MPH, making our car only the second nostalgia front engine car to go over 260 MPH. And for all of you who are wondering, it was a clean run, with no damage! The huge crowd loved it, and I'm sure Jim was very proud of us.
I will miss him so much, but I know he is in a much better place free from all pain and suffering. He is once again together with family and friends that he missed so much after their passing. He is now free to spend eternity with them.
I love you Jim. Until we are together again, give it more lead, up the percentage, and keep it straight down the middle.
Tommy
Jim McCombe
February 12, 2007
Thank you Jimmy for being part of my life, you have always been a great inspiration to me and I will never forget your kindness or your friendship.
I always looked forward to our get togethers when the Goodguys brought their show to Infineon Raceway (Sears Point) where we would watch the Top Fuelers run from the starting line.
The smile on your face was priceless when you car ran down the track and got even better when Sammy pushed it into the 5 second zone and dominated the entire weekend.
As Al Caldwell once told me and I have to agree, "there is a man without an enemy in the world who is loved by everyone" Al always referred to you as the "Smiling Irishman" and for us that knew you, the name was appropriate for the man with the warm and friendly smile.
You know Jim, Al was right...
Now go ahead and start raising Hell with "Terrible" Ted Gotelli, he wouldn't have it any other way.
Alexis Verrett
February 12, 2007
Dearest Dot,Sandy,Bob and Mike, my prayers are with you. Jim was a special man. I feel very greatful for knowing him. I am also greatful that I had the opportunity to speak with him recently. Rich also sends his prayers. With love Alexis and Rich Verrett
Lynn (Smith)Landucci
February 12, 2007
Dot, Bob, Sandy & Michael,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Jim was a very special person in all our lives and he will be missed.
TOM & KIM BALLIET
February 12, 2007
TO DOT AND FAMILY,OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY GOES OUT TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY,JIM AND MY FAMILY WILL BE REUNITED AGAIN IN A BETTER PLACE.RESPECTFULLY YOURS,THE BALLIET FAMILY.
Bill Mitchell
February 12, 2007
Had a great time racing with Jim at
Half Moon Bay in the 60's
He will be remembered
Phil & Amber Keeler
February 12, 2007
Our thoughts and Prayers are with you
Marc & Lauren Santoro
February 12, 2007
Dear McLennan Family,
We are so sorry to hear of Jim's passing but take comfort in knowing that he is free from suffering and at rest. We would like to thank you for all of the time that we spent together, at the track, in your home, and as a part of your extended family. It was the twin engine dragster that Marc "wrenched" on that provided us the opportunity to begin hanging around together. This time gave us the chance to become better acquainted and we ended up getting married. We love you and our hearts go out to you all. Thank you for all of the good times. We will miss Jim's kindness, great smile, and wonderful laugh.
Bless his heart.
Love,
Ken Manley Jr.
February 12, 2007
Here I sit, sixty three years old, thinking of a man who has been my hero most of my life! Early Sunday mornings, every other weekend, Dad and I would head out for HMB Airport to tow the three old bread trucks into position in preparation for the Hot Dogs and the Timing, all of which was important stuff. In later years I ran across Jim at Reggie Jackson's Speed Shop and remarked to him that he was now warming the Hot Dogs, where before he WAS the hot dog! We will all miss this great individual! Ken Manley Jr.
Delia Olague
February 11, 2007
My prayers to the family. I may not have know him directly, but I know his wonderful niece Jeanne Olson and I believe he was a wonderful man as he has a beautiful niece who loved him.
Cloy Fitzgerald
February 11, 2007
Dot & Family, My deepest sympathy to you Dot and the entire family. Jim and all of you were such a force in my life that I can't express it all here. He will really be missed.
Jeano & Carol Lacoste
February 11, 2007
Dear Dot & Family,
We will truly miss Jim and the fun times we had together. I learned a lot from Jim about racing. He always had a smile on his face and a hand shake ready. Love Jeano & Carol
Joe Tatman
February 11, 2007
Dot,Bob,Mike,Sandy and Family: Though we did not have the pleasure of meeting Jim and you until later in Jim's life, I will always have the memory of him in my heart. His infectious smile and greeting, whenever you saw him, was "his trademark". His generosity, warmth, friendship and manner were just a few of his traits that will always be remembered. I just know he's having a great time with all his old friends he is with now. God really has his hands full.
With love, affection and wonderful memories of Jim and especially the generosity and friendship of the McLennan Family.
Joe Tatman Family
David & Lena Chudzinski
February 11, 2007
Dearest Dot, Bob,Sandy & Michael
Our thoughts and prayers are with you always. David will always remember building and working on the Model T Car with Big Jim. He was an inspiration to those who loved to build CARS....He will be missed but remembered Always & Forever..
God Bless your Family.
Joe Tatman
February 11, 2007
Dot,Bob,Mike,Sandy and Family: Though we did not have the pleasure of meeting Jim and you until later in Jim's life, I will always have the memory of him in my heart. His infectious smile and greeting, whenever you saw him, was "his trademark". His generosity, warmth, friendship and manner were just a few of his traits that will always be remembered. I just know he's having a great time with all his old friends he is with now. God really has his hands full.
With love, affection and wonderful memories of Jim and Family.
Joe Tatman Family
Butch & Amy Lupo
February 11, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire McLennan family. Jim is now at peace & truly free. He & Benny are probably remembering old times and starting the new chapter of the SF pacers. Love to you all!
Terri & Darryl Hollenbeck
February 11, 2007
So many of my childhood and life memories include Jim,Dot and the family,from clearlake trips, snowtrips or working so many weekends in the snack bar at the drags. I will cherish the memories and life lessons Jim taught me.I will miss that smile that always greeted me and those great stories you told, You always gave so much to so many and expected nothing in return. For all you gave me I thank you and God luv' ya Jim
Debby Brizio Evans
February 11, 2007
Dear Dot,Sandy,Bobby& Michael,
Jim will be missed by all of us. He was always like an Uncle to my brother and sisters and I. He was a loyal friend to both my Moms and my Dad. He taught us all what hard work was all about and gave me my first job at Half Moon Bay Drag Strip picking up the garbage. I will never forget his voice and how he always seemed happy to see us. We were all lucky to have him in our lives.
Debbie Booth (Smith)
February 11, 2007
Dearest McLennan family,
My heartfelt sympathies to all of you-Jim was such a major part of the class of 72's lives.
Elin Lupo
February 11, 2007
Hi Dot, Bobby, Mike, Sandy, and family.
Jim was such a wonderful and kind man. He always made you feel that he was glad to see you, as I was to see him. At least now he won't have any more pain and he can talk drag racing with my parents, Benny & Ardie Lupo, along with all the others that have passed on to drag racing heaven. I will miss Jim's wonderful smile and kindness.
With Love,
Elin Lupo
Bruce Richardson
February 11, 2007
Dot and family: My heartfelt sympathy on your loss. I will always cherish Jim's friendship and help and encouragement early-on in my newspaper career.
Thomas Baeza
February 11, 2007
Our deepist sympathy
The Baeza Family
Emily Powell
February 11, 2007
Dear Dot and family. Today waws a sad day for me when I heard of Jim's passing. I will never forget the support he gave to me and Balboa High and our alumni association. Therre have been many 'great' men in our lives, and to me Jim, in his own way was a great man perhaps a legend in our neighborhood. He had so many friends--he will never be forgotten.
He always brought good humor whenever he entered a room...A light was turned on with his presence. I/we will miss him.
Frank Angelos
February 11, 2007
My You Rest in Peace Jim. I Will Never Forget All The Good Times We Had Over The Years Old Friend.My Heart Goes Out To The Family & Frends
Frank ANGELOS
February 11, 2007
may you rest in peace Jim .I will never forget all the good times we had over the years I will miss you old friend . my heart go out to the family and friends
Margie Boyle
February 11, 2007
I remember when Uncle Jim let me drive his big red Cadillac for the first time... I was about 9 years old, and I wasn't tall enough to reach the pedals. He drove the caddie to the starting line at Fremont Raceway, got out and told me, "Scoot over behind the wheel, sit forward so you can reach the gas pedal. Grip the wheel, step on the gas and steer straight. Don't touch the brake till I tell ya." We sped down the quarter mile in that tank at a top speed of about 60. I have never been so scared, exhilarated, and proud all at the same time as I was back then in 1964. Its a memory I have shared over and over again throughout my lifetime, and referred to when risks are required. What a guy, what a hero..."God, luv ya!"
Sue Brizio
February 11, 2007
Dot, Bobby, Mike, and Sandy and family.
We share your sorrow and will miss
Jim as will many others. He touched
so many lives. May the good times
live in our hearts forever. Jim
will be in a better place along with many others who have led the
way for him, Tommy the Greek, Shep,
DC, Pete Ogden, Mickey Thompson and
Jack Williams. Think of the good
times this group will share.
Love you all
Sue and Andy
John Sofilos
February 11, 2007
Rest in peace Jim. Thanks for all the great memories. My thoughts to Dot and the family.
Jamie Jackson
February 11, 2007
One of the friendliest and kindest man I've ever had the honor of knowing. He always greeted me with a loving smile and hearty handshake, as if he was your best friend, and to many, he was. A man very close to my father's likeness and that's a great thing.
George Zabelle
February 11, 2007
Although you are gone you will never be forgotten. May you rest in peace.
Donna Hovan
February 11, 2007
Jim...one of the most special, generous, loving people I have ever had the pleasure and honor of knowing my whole life. You are loved and will truly be missed.
We are all blessed for having you in our lives. xo Donna (Smith) Hovan xo
Sue Brizio
February 11, 2007
Hi Dot, Bobby, Mike and Sandy and
family.
We have lost a very good friend in
body, but he will always be by our
side in our memories and prayers.
Our love to all of you and will see
you on Wed. and Thurs.
Andy & Sue
Teresa Driscoll
February 11, 2007
Mr. McLennan was a very nice man to us girls from Westmoor High. My sister, Joan, and I loved working at the concession stand at Fremont Drag Strip on the weekends. Mr. McLennan told us we could eat all the hot dogs we wanted and we all thought he was "very cool". My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this time.
Danny Murray
February 11, 2007
Dot Bob Sandi & Mike:My deepest sympathy for you and all.I have the utmost respect for Jim and all of you.Thanks for everything you have done for me. Danny Murray
Marie Marshall
February 11, 2007
I'll miss you, my beloved brother, but I know that there has been celebrating in heaven since you arrived! Keep the pot right at that poker table, and may the wind be always at your back.
Love, Re
Ron Fulmer
February 11, 2007
Rest in peace Jim. I will never forget the good times over the past 50 or so years. You were my hero.
Ronald and Gloria Fulmer
February 11, 2007
Ronald and Gloria Fulmer
Frank Gau
February 11, 2007
Rest in peace old friend. My heart goes out to your family and friends.
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