[ISF]

I know it isn't open wheel related but this article just appeared on the Daytona Beach News Journal website. Thought it was worthy of mention since Tiny was a midwesterner like ourselves.



NASCAR legend Tiny Lund's widow found shot to death in N.C.
BY AUDREY PARENTE, STAFF WRITER


January 6, 2012 2:40 PM Posted in News Journal

Wanda Lund-Early, widow of former NASCAR legend Tiny Lund, was found shot to death Thursday night at her home in Waynesville, N.C., Police Chief Bill Hollingsed confirmed this afternoon.

The wound appears to be self-inflicted but that determination will be made once an autopsy is complete, he said. Officers have worked throughout the night on the investigation into the shooting, he said. More information will be released later.

Roland Via, webmaster for tinylund.com website, confirmed Early's death shortly after noon.

Via, of Holly Hill, said Lund-Early was planning to be in Daytona Beach for the February Speed Weeks to receive an award for Tiny from Victory Lane Racing Association. Details are sketchy, and no further information could be obtained from North Carolina law enforcement officials although Via said he was notified today.

"She was a great ambassador and made a lot of appearances at the legends' banquets and activities," said Buzz McKim, historian for the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, N.C. "She was as little as he was huge and they were a great couple." Lund died in a 1975 crash at Talladega Superspeedway.

Ron Piasecki, president of Motor Racing Heritage, said Lund-Early has been a valuable friend to racing groups in Daytona Beach.

"It's definitely a loss," Piasecki said. "She was married to one of the great drivers of NASCAR and will be missed."





Our condolences go to Ms. Lund's loved ones.

[indybail]

Godspeed.