Kurt & Warren Johnson's statement on Geoffrion

Kurt & Warren Johnson's Comments on Scott Geoffrion's passing

Sugar Hill, Ga., May 9, 2006 - NHRA Pro Stock standouts Warren and Kurt Johnson took time today to offer their thoughts on the news of the unexpected death of former teammate Scott Geoffrion, who passed away Tuesday in Southern California.

Geoffrion drove for Warren Johnson Enterprises in 1991, piloting a second Oldsmobile in 18 races, scoring two runner-up finishes, two No. 1 qualifying performances and finished fourth in the championship standings. However, on Tuesday the Johnsons' comments focused on their personal relationship with the vibrant young Californian, whom they considered a close family friend.

"Scott Geoffrion was one of those special people who didn't have an enemy in the world," said Warren. "He worked for us in 1991, which was an enjoyable year for everyone on the team. He was good racer and just a great person to have around.

"Even though we would go on to have our well-publicized staging battles, we never stopped being friends. We will miss seeing his smiling face at the track. He was a genuinely nice guy who was taken away from us much too soon."

The younger Johnson echoed his father's sentiments.

"The last time I saw Scott was in Pomona earlier this year," recalled Kurt. "He looked good and told me he felt healthy and that everything was great, so today's news comes as a complete shock. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Scott's family, and his two children, Kyle and Alexa. You have to feel bad for them losing their dad at such a young age.

"Scott was a great racer in his own right and always a tremendous supporter of our racing program, but more importantly, he was a great friend with a huge heart. They say you only need five good friends throughout your life, like the fingers on one hand. Scott was definitely one of my five, so it's like I've lost a finger. We're certainly going to miss him."

-j2r