Dick Trickle, whose larger-than-life personality made him a cult figure among legions of stock-car racing fans, died of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, authorities said on Thursday.
The 71-year-old’s body was found near his pickup truck at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Boger City, North Carolina. Local police said foul play was not suspected.
Trickle earned his reputation as a successful short track driver before joining the Winston Cup series and earning rookie of the year in 1989 at age 48.
He competed in more than 300 Cup races. Although he never won a Cup race and won only two Busch Series races, Trickle earned cult status in the 1990s.
“Dick was a legend in the short-track racing community, particularly in his home state of Wisconsin, and he was a true fan favorite,” NASCAR chairman Brian France said.
“Personalities like Dick Trickle helped shape our sport. He will be missed.”
There is a lasting image of Trickle in the Winston 500 lighting up and smoking a cigarette while driving his car with his knees during a caution lap.
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