Ernie's Candle
(What does the candle mean?)
Ernie's Candle
(What does the
candle mean?)
January 7, 2002
L ong time SCCA member Ernie Mendicki passed away suddenly on January 3rd. Ernie was the ultimate automotive historian; if you asked him what he did, he said,
"I play with cars."
Ernie started racing in the late 50s when he and Chuck Forge went to RDC Drivers School at Vaca Valley Raceway in Forges VW Bug. He then raced a variety of cars, the most successful being a BMC Front-Engined Formula Jr.
He began showing cars at SCCA Concours de Elegance, winning two Best of Show Awards with his 1933 Auburn. He was a Concours Judge and held the position of Chief Judge for years.
Ernie was one of the first to race vintage cars and remained active in HMSA and CSRG and raced in 25 consecutive Monterey Historics. He was always proud of the fact that all of his vintage cars were both licensed and legal for the street.
Ernie was all about friendship and was proud to have friends for 40 and 50 years. He knew the famous and the not so famous and respected them all.
He is survived by his wife Mary Lou Robson and daughter Samantha Mendicki.
At his request, there will be no service but an Open House Celebration of Life will be held at 289 Fremont, Los Altos (between El Monte and Springer) on Saturday, January 26 between 1 and 5 PM. (650) 949-0627 for
directions, or
click here for a driving map.
Donations may be made to your favorite charity.
Email The Web Team to post your memories of
Ernie.
We'll do our best to see that it makes its way to his family. If you would like them posted on
this page, then let us know that too.
