Danny Earnhardt Sr., NASCAR mechanic and brother of legendary racer, dead at 66

MOORESVILLE, N.C. — Danny Earnhardt Sr., the youngest brother of Dale Earnhardt Sr. and a longtime mechanic for the Earnhardt family’s racing team, died Friday. He was 66.

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Danny Earnhardt had been employed by JR Motorsports since 2005 working in the suspension room to help build cars that won 58 races and three NASCAR Xfinity Series championships, JR Motorsports said in a news release.

Danny Earnhardt began his racing career working on his father’s cars and also worked as a pipe insulator, CBS Sports reported. After Ralph Earnhardt died of a heart attack in 1973, Danny Earnhardt began working with his brother, serving as a mechanic and pit crew member for Dale Earnhardt Inc.

“The Earnhardt family holds a special place in NASCAR history and Danny Earnhardt was an important part of their success,” NASCAR said in a statement. “Danny worked hard behind the scenes, helping three generations of Earnhardts succeed. On behalf of the entire NASCAR industry, our thoughts are with the Earnhardt family during this difficult time.”

Danny Earnhardt Sr., was the father of current JRM car chief Danny Earnhardt Jr.

He is survived by his wife, Sherry Earnhardt; his son, Danny Earnhardt Jr., his mother, Martha Earnhardt; and two grandchildren.

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