Smokey Yunick (1923–2001), born Henry Yunick, was the legendary mechanic, engine builder and team owner whose 'Best Damn Garage in Town' in Daytona Beach fielded the winning cars in the 1961 and 1962 Daytona 500s. No one of his era pushed NASCAR's rulebook further, and his name still stands for mechanical ingenuity in the sport. Yunick was cremated; per his memorial, his ashes were given to family, with small portions reportedly scattered in Victory Lane at tracks where he won.
At a Glance
- Born: May 25, 1923
- Died: May 9, 2001
From the Book
This profile is adapted from Legends at Rest: NASCAR Legends by Howard Wear.