Chuck J Sterling

Chuck Sterling, 73, a beloved member of the dirt track racing community, passed away on April 13, 2023, in Tulsa. He was born in Tulsa on March 19, 1950, to Charles Sterling Sr. and Helen (Rapier) Sterling.

Chuck attended Nathan Hale High School in Tulsa. He worked for various companies throughout his life, including Zebco, 20th Century Electric Company, and Jim Norton Toyota.

Chuck was a legend in the racing community. His passion for motorsports began in the 1960s when he attended races as a spectator. He went on to become a driver, flagman, and photographer. Chuck's career as a flagman began in 1974, filling in at Dewey Speedway. He was later hired at Thunderbird Speedway in Muskogee, before moving on to Tulsa Speedway in 1979.

Chuck's love for racing photography took him all over the United States, including to Knoxville Raceway in Knoxville, IA, and to Devil's Bowl Speedway in Mesquite, TX, among others. Chuck had long-standing attendance streaks at multiple racing programs. He was present at the Knoxville Nationals for 46 years in a row and was known as a fixture at the Tulsa Shootout and the Chili Bowl since their beginnings. It was common for Chuck to drive hours to a race and then immediately drive back to go to races at Tulsa Speedway, Creek County Speedway, or Port City Raceway.

For all Chuck's love of racing, he said his greatest joy came from being a father. His pride for his daughter was well-known; he showed photos of her and told stories about her accomplishments to anyone he knew, and probably even some people he didn't know. He was a loving and endlessly supportive father who will forever be deeply missed.

Chuck is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his daughter Misti Yerton, son-in-law Adam Yerton, and sister Jan Sterling. His passing is an immense loss for his family, friends, and community.

Details about a memorial service will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association in Chuck's honor.

Your checkered flag is well-earned, Chuck Sterling. Rest in peace.