A tribute to Ollie Silva by Ken Smith 

(Ken read this at Ollie's funeral) 

With deep emotion  I spoke at services like today about 51/2 years ago for both my Mother and my only sister - Ollie's wife Sue.  It was extremely difficult and today it is no different, because Ollie Silva was a very special individual and such a huge part of my life - so if I don't make it through with what I want to say I trust you will understand.

You may have heard that services like today is a celebration of one's life - sure it is, but it is also damn sad- Ollie meant so much to so many - his family - his close friends that are here today and many that are not here.  We were all a part of Ollie's life and I for one am so grateful for the wonderful experiences that I was able to share with Ollie for more than 50 years.

Ollie was first my hero!! Then he became my mentor - in fact when I went onto the Pines Speedway track to warm-up my hot 1950 Studebaker Ollie would get off the track.  Why? Because I was always out of control - many times we shared a good laugh together about those fun days: Ollie then became the Star of our Racing Club NESMRA - then he became my brother-in-law, but always he was my close and good friend.

This is not news to anyone here, but Ollie was an extremely quiet man throughout his entire life - said  very little and wanted even less - but one thing for sure - he followed his simple path in life and he followed that path his way!!

In my view Ollie never really understood the reason he was so popular and meant so much to others.  I'm not sure I do, but it had alot to do with Charisma - the magnetic smile - charm - class - a quiet dignity - respect for others - and maybe it had something to do with those dark tinted glasses he wore day and night that made Ollie stand out!!  But stand out he did !!  Ollie you have captured your final checkered flag, but your style and flare has been embedded in  the memories of thousands of  fans throughout this area and  beyond - forever.

One more thing Ollie - give my love to Sue and my Mother Gert when you meet up with them and Dale Earnhardt - the "Big O" is about to make a strong move on the outside!!  Look Out!!