John Patterson McCurdy

John P McCurdy, 80, known by many as a talented car builder, mechanic and lifelong drag racer left this world on May 1st, 2023. John was a beloved husband, father and friend, and his presence will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

John was born to Maxine and John McCurdy Sr. March 17, 1943 and raised in Portland, Oregon. After graduating from Jefferson High school, in 1963 he married and had three children: Keith, Karey, and Kevin. In 1973, John married Jill and they welcomed Chris into the world. After 35 years of marriage Jill passed away from cancer and he found love again in his relationship with Anne.

John grew up with a love of building all things cars; he was drawn to the smell of burning rubber and racing fuel. In the 1960s the drag racing community was introduced to the first Executioner, a 1948 Ford Anglia. Several Executioner’s followed including a 1969 Opel, and lastly the nostalgia dragster that sped into the 200 MPH club. John’s man cave is lined in trophies as a testament to the detail and passion he put into his cars, including his prized Portland Roadster Show first place award for Honky Tonk T, a 1923 Model T.

For the past 60 years, he influenced many in the Portland area drag racing circuit. He had scores of friends which were met with his customary “Hey guy!”. His garage was open to anybody that needed help, advice or just wanted to sit and tell stories. John was known as a legendary storyteller (with a hint of exaggeration and humor) and his automotive expertise with attention to detail were widely known and appreciated.

Most importantly, John loved and cherished his children and grandchildren above all else. He instilled in them a strong character, tender hearts, and a desire to help others. They often spent time together puttering on projects, be them wood or steel, and of course talked about what was new at the track.

We will forever remember John as a kind, generous, and gifted man who lived life to the fullest and inspired those around him to do the same. His legacy lives on with his loving family, countless friends, and racing colleagues.

Rest in peace, John. You will be dearly missed.

A private funeral service will be held at Lincoln Memorial on May 5, 2023.

Family and friends are invited to drop in and celebrate John’s life:

Saturday May 13, 2023

1:00 – 4:00 pm

Wichita Bar and Grill

19140 Molalla Ave

Oregon City, OR

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in John’s memory to B.R.A.K.E.S. (https://putonthebrakes.org/), a teen pro-active driving school, as he was excited to see the next generation of racers grow and develop.

Thank you,

Keith, Karey, Kevin and Chris