Mert Lawwill Celebrated by 500 at California Memorial

Nearly 500 people gathered at the Carson Center in Carson, California, to celebrate the life of motorcycle racing legend Mert Lawwill. The event, organized by his son Joe, featured vintage dirt track bikes, a wall of career photos, and a tribute film by Dana Brown.

Joe Lawwill expressed heartfelt thanks to the attendees, many of whom traveled long distances. He noted the overwhelming support he received while planning, with people consistently responding, "For Mert? Absolutely. What do you need?" This reaction, he said, reflected the way his father treated people throughout his life.

Speakers and Stories

A roster of notable figures from the motorcycle world took the stage to share memories. The speakers, in order of appearance, were Don Emde, Joe Lawwill, Marcy Lawwill, Al Kozak, Kyle Kozak, Allan Seymour, David Aldana, Kenny Roberts, Wayne Rainey, John Parker, Zap Espinoza, Troy Lee, Jake McCullough, John Van Hoove, Josie Fouts, Sherman Lee, Shane Cahill, and Dana Brown. Their stories aimed to tell Mert's life story in a personal, honest, and funny way.

Behind the Scenes Support

Joe Lawwill extended thanks to numerous individuals and companies who helped execute the event. Chris Curto from High Impact Event Technology was recognized for the exceptional audio-visual presentation. The team at Proforma Hi-Rez was credited for building the physical displays and printing graphics under a tight deadline.

Financial and logistical support came from several key contributors. Chris Carter of Motion Pro made a generous donation. ChadMichael Morrisette of Oh Mannequin provided mannequins for the racing displays, a service sponsored by Alec Call and Bryan Johns. Don Emde offered important early guidance and helped produce a commemorative booklet, with Mike Cowan ensuring it could be printed in full color.

Lasting Legacy and Future Displays

A special acknowledgment was given to the "Mert's Hands" crew, including Jake McCullough, Sherman Lee, Shane Cahill, Josie Fouts, and John "Bandit" Van Hoove. This group represents the prosthetic hand initiative that has given wounded riders dignity and freedom, a lesser-known aspect of Lawwill's legacy.

Many of the displays from the celebration will have a future home. Troy Lee plans to open a small museum at Troy Lee Designs headquarters in Corona, California, with a target opening in December. The museum will allow the public to revisit pieces of Mert Lawwill's history.

Digital content from the event is being shared widely. A digital copy of the commemorative booklet and Dana Brown's tribute film are available on a dedicated Celebration of Life webpage. Rich Van Every captured photos and video for recap videos to be shared on social media, with an extended video expected in the coming weeks.

For those who ordered commemorative T-shirts but could not attend, shipments will be processed soon. A limited additional print run will be offered for others who wish to purchase one, with details announced on Mert Lawwill's social media pages.