Ralph_Lee_Earnhardt

Ralph Lee Earnhardt (February 23, 1928 – September 26, 1973) was an American stock car racer and patriarch of the Earnhardt racing family. He was the father of seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Dale Earnhardt, grandfather of Kerry Earnhardt, Kelley Earnhardt Miller, and Dale Earnhardt Jr..
Earnhardt is considered one of NASCAR's all-time winningest drivers with over 350 NASCAR-sanctioned victories. In addition to his driving accomplishments, he served as a mentor to other racers of his time. A skilled craftsman, he built cars and engines for his competitors and served as a teammate and mentor to future NASCAR Hall of Famer, Bobby Isaac.