I Talked to Gerry Hedlund, Today 12/14/2016 about Phil
In 1964 the Stock Nationals were in Modesto, California. 350 miles north of our house. Tuesday, after the National, Ron and Gerry Hedlund show up at our house and Phil Wagner is with them. We have dinner in my parent's patio and talk boat racing for hours. My dad had at two car garage, with a six car garage added to the back. Great place to build boats and work on motors.
We got to talking and found out Phil was in med school. When they left. My dad and I said, "We never knew anyone who went to med school."
The funny part of this, when they got to Las Vegas, Phil start gambling. Security asked his for his ID as he looked about 18. Security didn't "BUY" his ID and hauled him into their office. Ron and Jerry had to go in and "VOUCH" that yes, this is Phil Wagner, he drives one of our race boats. Yes, we are from Willette, Illinois. Yes, he goes to med school.
Jerry Waldman, was married to to "HILL", no know relationship but after the 1956 Nationals, Jerry and our family were always "Family". Jerry had Dr. Phil Wagner travel to the races with him as "INSURANCE". No one ever expected Jerry to die the way he did.
I'm sure Phil never blamed himself, but losing a friend like Jerry Waldman had to truly hurt.
Hoping your health improves, Phil.
1 Attachment(s)
Alex, 1972: Jerry Simison and Crew
Is the guy pulling the string, Dr. Phil Wagner? Who are these guys?