(Bobby Gangwer Photos)

Dion was lost to us on Saturday, September 14 2002 in a practice crash at Kalamazoo, (MI), Speedway. Dion was in the midst of shaking down his recently finished supermodified in preparation for the upcoming Midwestern Supermodified Association, (MSA), race at Sandusky, (OH), Speedway when the car suddenly and without warning went straight in turn two at Kalamazoo.

Dion had turned several slow laps on the fast 3/8 without any problems and was just getting the car up to speed when the crash happened. According to crew chief Dan Emmons, Dion had come out of turn four slightly higher than he had on previous laps. He accelerated normally down the front stretch and rolled out of the throttle entering turn one. As he accelerated entering turn two the car suddenly and inexplicably went straight and up the track. Dion left the track proper and hit the Kalamazoo Speedway Safety truck that was parked on the outer edge of the track just outside of turn two. It is believed that the impact with the safety vehicle killed Dion instantly.

Contrary to early reports the throttle on the car did not stick. ³Dion clearly rolled out of the throttle going into one and then was accelerating through the apex of the corner when the car suddenly went straight,² said Emmons. ³At this point for all I know he could have blown a tire, but there¹s no way the throttle stuck and until I look at the car further I won¹t know for sure what happened, if we ever do. Right now that¹s the furthest thing from my mind.²

Dion¹s passion was the supermodified division, which is known as ³The Ultimate Short Track Race Car.² Reaching speeds as fast as Indy type cars on one-mile ovals, Dion knew the risks inherit with this type of oval racing, but was willing to take that risk to follow his dream. While working with a shoestring budget he had completely refurbished his new car and was looking forward to doing battle with the MSA regulars for the last two races of the season.

His friends will remember him as intense, driven, and dedicated to the division he loved so well. However, they will also remember him as a lighthearted jokester that always had a smile and was willing to lend a hand whenever a fellow competitor needed it.

His wife Julie and daughters Mindy & Lindsey, and son Kenny survive Dion.

The Supermodified Ultimate Pavement Racing Series  (SUPRS) was founded as a way to give back to supermodified drivers and teams in time of need in Dion's memory.

SUPRS also sponsors a race in Dion's Memory at a yearly supermodified event.
Past winners include:
Mark Sammut, Jamie Letcher, Rich Reid, Jon Henes, and 2007 recipient: Bobby Haynes Jr.

These drivers demonstrate all the ideals that Dion represented and the "Never Give Up" attitude he always displayed.