Ron “Rapid Ron” McGee passed away at the age of 61. Born in Tulsa, Okla., he was a citizen of the Muscogee Nation and a descendant of Tuckabache, a well known Creek Tribe warrior and hunter. He was very proud of his Indian heritage.

Ron went to Daytona in 1977 and purchased a cup car that ran and finished the 500. He started racing modified at the old San Jose Speedway in the early ’70s. Ron went on to race the NASCAR Winston West in the early ’80s. He was a true motorhead who never lost his love of speed and the sound of a well-tuned engine.

Ron owned Diamond Electro Plating and did extensive chrome work for many custom cars and motorcycles. He also owned Bay Internet, specializing in computer cabinets, sheet metal and custom painting.

He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Van Sandwyk of Discovery Bay; his daughter and son-in-law, Katrina and Louie Mendez of Salida; stepsons, Benjamin Markus of Honolulu and Clyde Holbrook of Discovery Bay; nephew, Michael McGee of Redding; and “his girls,” granddaughters Kylie and Carerra Mendez. He is predeceased by his parents, mother Mary Engel; brother, Sammie McGee; and stepson, Nicholas Markus.

A memorial service will be held Aug. 1, 2009, at 11 a.m. at the Brentwood Funeral Home, 839 First St., followed by a reception. All family and friends are invited to come and celebrate Ron’s life.