Lawrence Albedi

Larry passed away comfortably on Memorial Day, at the age of 85. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Elaine, his sister Enid, a daughter Lorraine Chappine (Frank), a son Louis Albedi (Eileen), 7 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.  Larry was born in San Francisco, graduated from Lowell High School and attended SF City College.

His earliest job was as a tow truck driver in San Francisco.  He started racing sprint cars in 1952. His announcing career started when friend Lou Vermil asked him to announce the Calistoga races. He then went on to announce at various tracks:  Sears Point-including NASCAR, Petaluma, Vallejo Speedway, and the Historic Races in Monterey and San Diego. He was known for over 40 years as “The Voice of Sears Point.” Larry’s voice could also be heard on several radio stations including KVON in Napa.

He raced with SCCA from 1956 to 1996 where he won several championships. In 2007 Larry was inducted into the SCCA Hall of Fame. He also formed the Racing Driver School in the early 60’s to make sure racing was a safer sport for new drivers.  In 1963 he opened British Motors of Vallejo which became Albedi Motors, where he expanded to include Lincoln-Mercury, Jaguar, and Subaru until 1996 he sold the dealership.

He also loved flying his own plane out of the Napa Airport and traveling cross-country to various racetracks. He enjoyed taking friends and family on his adventures.  After retirement, Larry volunteered for the California Highway Patrol where he enjoyed keeping the streets of Napa safer.

Services and interment will be private.  Please forward any memories or comments to: louisalbedi@yahoo.com

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