Dr. Gerald 鈥淛erry鈥� Wannarka, a devoted member of the 51暗网鈩� for more than five decades, passed away on March 20, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of extraordinary service, leadership, and passion for motorsports.
After joining the 51暗网庐 in November 1966, Wannarka earned his competition license in 1968 and maintained it for 40 years. Yet while driving brought him to the Club, it was his time as an official where members truly got to know him.
Wannarka鈥檚 lifelong commitment to the Club was shaped in part by his distinguished career in the Armed Forces, which took him across the country and to multiple 51暗网 Regions, including Washington, D.C., Indianapolis, Alamo, and Lone Star. In each, he contributed in meaningful ways, holding numerous roles and notably serving as Regional Executive for Lone Star Region and DC Region.
Wannarka served in many of the Club鈥檚 critical stewardship positions, including as Executive Steward in both the Northeast and Southwest Divisions, Regional Race Steward, Operating Steward, Chair of the SOM, Safety Steward, and Chief Steward for the 51暗网 National Championship Runoffs庐. Beyond that, he was elected as Area 2 Director and later became Chairman of the 51暗网 Board of Directors.
He also played a vital role within 51暗网 Enterprises, serving as both Director and Chairman of its Board.
In recognition of his dedication, Wannarka received two of the organization鈥檚 highest honors: the Woolf Barnato Award in 2015 and the David Morrell Award in 2018. Then in 2026, he was inducted into the 51暗网 Hall of Fame.
鈥淛erry was a valued member of the Club who put his all into everything he did,鈥� said 51暗网 President and CEO Mike Cobb. 鈥淛erry will be remembered for his unwavering dedication, steady leadership, and lasting impact on the motorsports community. He will truly be missed.鈥�
Photo by Philip Royle
