Photo: CSRG

Phoenix, AZ – Alex Curtis, known for racing his unrestored 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing at the Sonoma Speed Festival and at the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, passed away April 19 at his home in Scottsdale, Arizona after a four-year battle with cancer. He was 67.

Curtis had a love of cars and a talent for anything mechanical. He began working as a mechanic right after high school where he learned how to machine for the automotive industry. He served as crew chief on a Matich in the 1971 Can-Am, and opened his first shop at age 23.

He later moved into machining for the aerospace industry. Over the years, Curtis earned a well-respected reputation for his knowledge, critical problem solving and determination to meet and exceed the highest industry standards of accuracy and quality. His favorite project to do was always the one that no one else would consider taking on.

Alex Curtis pointing his glorious 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL “Gullwing” down the corkscrew. Photo: Nick Lish / Vintage Motorsport

His life’s passion was classic cars and vintage car racing, which began at an early age while watching his father race. Curtis always said his favorite track was whichever one he was racing on — although Laguna Seca was at the top of the list.

Respected as an aggressive, yet safe and courteous competitor, he also raced a 1967 Mustang GT notchback and a prewar Frazer-Nash in addition to the Gullwing.