Ramo Stott

Ramo Stott: The Racing Legend from Keokuk

Written by Erika Berrett

Ramo Eugene Stott, born on April 6, 1934, in Mt. Sterling, Iowa, is remembered as one of the most iconic figures in American auto racing, whose legacy extends beyond the track into the hearts of his community and the annals of motorsport history. Stott passed away on August 19, 2021, after a courageous battle with cancer, leaving behind a rich legacy that is forever etched in the history of Keokuk, Iowa, and the racing world.

A Life Fueled by Passion and Speed

From humble beginnings, Stott’s journey into racing began on the dirt tracks in the mid-1950s. Over the next four decades, he carved out a career that saw him secure over 400 victories, becoming a two-time ARCA Menards Series champion (1970 and 1971) and the 1975 USAC Stock Car champion. His racing prowess was evident as he consistently competed at the highest levels of stock car racing, including the NASCAR Cup Series, where he participated in 35 races from 1967 to 1984.

Stott’s most memorable moment came during the 1976 Daytona 500, where he claimed the pole position in an unexpected turn of events. After three of the leading drivers were disqualified for using non-approved equipment, Stott inherited the pole. Reflecting on this achievement, he remarked, "I've probably had more publicity out of this than anything else that's ever happened to me. The newspapers have really played it up here and my wife Judy, who keeps a scrapbook of my career, is running all around the place buying up papers for the press clippings." Though he finished 26th in that race due to engine trouble, his legacy at Daytona was solidified, with two Top 5 finishes and four Top 10s in the Great American Race.

A Pillar of His Community

Beyond the racetrack, Ramo Stott was deeply rooted in his Keokuk community. He was not just a race car driver; he was a husband, father, and friend, known for his warm personality and his ever-present “hundred dollar” smile. His marriage to Judy Ann Hawley in 1954 marked the beginning of a partnership that would last over 66 years. Judy was not only his life partner but also his teammate, scoring races and standing by his side throughout his illustrious career.

Stott’s influence extended to the next generation of racers. His sons, Corrie and Lance, followed in his footsteps, competing in the ARCA Menards Series and continuing the family’s racing tradition. Even after retiring from active competition, Stott remained involved in the racing world, serving as a NASCAR Cup Series official and even driving the pace car. His contributions to motorsports were recognized in 2011 when he was inducted into the National Dirt Late Model Hall of Fame.

A Lasting Legacy

Ramo Stott’s impact on the world of racing and his community cannot be overstated. He was more than a champion on the track; he was a man who embodied the spirit of dedication, perseverance, and humility. His achievements brought pride to Keokuk and inspired countless others in the racing community and beyond.

Even in his final days, Stott's legacy was honored when he was celebrated as an ARCA National Champion at the 2021 Iowa Speedway ARCA Menards Series race. Although he was too ill to attend, the tribute underscored the enduring respect and admiration for a man who truly "lived the American dream" and remained "red, white, and blue to the very end."

Ramo Stott’s story is a testament to the power of passion, the importance of community, and the impact one person can have on the world. His final resting place at Oakland Cemetery in Keokuk serves as a reminder of a life well-lived, a life that continues to inspire those who come across his story.

Sources:

1. Obituary for Ramo Eugene Stott, Printy Funeral Home website.

2. "Two-Time ARCA Champion Ramo Stott, 87," Speed Sport, August 21, 2021.

3. Ultimate Racing History website, USAC Stock Car Series article.

4. "The Pepsi Inside Track Tribute to Ramo Stott," Radio Keokuk.

5. "Ramo Stott, pole-sitter for 1976 Daytona 500, dies at 87," CBS Sports.