Buck Baker, a legendary figure in NASCAR, shared a sound married life with Susan Baker until he took his last breath.
Buck Baker was a prominent American stock car racer born on March 4, 1919, in Richburg, South Carolina.
He had a distinguished NASCAR career from 1949 to 1976, earning two Grand National Series championships in 1956 and 1957.
He also won the prestigious Southern 500 three times and was a prolific driver, with 46 wins and 45 pole positions in his NASCAR Cup Series career.
Baker’s success extended beyond the track, as he was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame‘s 2013 class.
He was also recognized as one of the 50 Greatest Drivers in 1998. After retiring, he established the Buck Baker Racing School, where notable drivers like Jeff Gordon got their start.
Baker passed away on April 14, 2002, of natural causes in the Carolinas Medical Center. Regardless of his physical absence, he left a lasting legacy in the sport.
Buck Baker and Susan, Former Buck Baker Racing School President, Were Married for 30 Years!
Susan Baker, the devoted wife of NASCAR icon Buck Baker, has played an integral role in preserving his legacy long after passing in 2002.
Susan, the former Buck Baker Racing School president, continues to honor her husband’s vision.
The school, founded in 1980, teaches the essential skills for stock car racing. It has produced legendary drivers like Jeff Gordon and Tony Stewart.
Buck and Susan’s marriage, lasting 30 years, was filled with love, adventure, and laughter. They got married in 1972 and remained together until his passing.
Susan fondly recalls the vibrant personality of her late husband, whose charm and wit left a mark on everyone he met, saying,
“Buck always made an impression on people, whether good or bad. If you ever met him, you never forgot him. It was never boring being married to Buck, either. He could make me laugh like no one else could, and he had that same effect on others.”
Via: Jayski
She described their life together as exciting and filled with laughter and joy.
Buck’s successful career included two NASCAR championships and 46 race victories. However, it was his relationships and character that truly defined him.
Susan remembers Buck not just as a champion on the track but also as a kind-hearted and generous person.
Her support of the racing school after his death shows her commitment to his legacy and passion for the sport.
Susan’s dedication and cherished memories keep Buck’s spirit alive in her heart and the NASCAR community.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Buddy Baker, Buck’s son, won the 1980 Daytona 500 at a record speed of 177.602 mph (285.809 km/h), which still stands today.
- Susie Baker, Buck’s daughter, also worked at the Buck Baker Racing School, teaching alongside her brother Buddy.
- Buck’s other son, Randy Baker, also competed in the Winston Cup and now runs SpeedTech Auto Racing Schools.
