David Joe Rupp, born on December 24, 1937, in Wichita, KS, passed away on June 6, 2024, in Palm Beach County, FL. David was known for his various passions and accomplishments throughout his life, many of which were MAJOR feats for any Man…

As a young adult, David had a love for collecting antique and collector cars. He turned his passion for cars into a professional career, winning numerous races and setting world records on the tracks. In 1969, he organized & promoted a legendary rock festival at his racetrack, the "Palm Beach International Raceway” with the most popular bands of the 60’s:

The Palm Beach Pop Festival

• A three-day event took place on Thanksgiving weekend at the Palm Beach International Raceway. The festival featured many musical acts, including Janis Joplin, Johnny Winter, Spirit, Sly and the Family Stone, Vanilla Fudge, Iron Butterfly, King Crimson, Jefferson Airplane, and The Rolling Stones.

David “Dave” also enjoyed playing pool and was known for cleaning out the pockets of unsuspecting opponents, to their GREAT surprise, as he had one heck of a Poker Face & an unmatched accuracy & skills for the game!

Sushi, especially rainbow rolls, and scalding hot sake were among David's favorite foods. He had a great love for music, particularly classic rock, blues, deep soul, and funk. Making people laugh and helping them forget their struggles were some of David's greatest joys.

Europe held a special place in his heart as traveling was one of his favorite things in the World, although he was such a Workhorse by nature that he rarely had the time … he cherished his favorite TV shows, which were mainly westerns. In his younger years, David excelled in football and was even offered multiple Professional opportunities.

Dave’s career achievements were remarkable, as he was an overachiever in anything he set his mind to, with 99% of his endeavors related to Cars. His life motto, signaling his unapologetic attitude, was captured in the phrase, "F! em!" as he proudly raised his middle finger in the air.

He was married to Georgia Wolfe, and he is survived by his daughters - Taffy Rupp and Kimberly Wilcox, his son - David Rupp Jr, his sister - Yvonne Camille Ellis, and his two granddaughters - Diana Rupp who recently had a baby girl, living in Alaska & MaKenzie Wilcox a Nurse, living in Kansas.

His defining characteristics included a unique sense of humor that only the intelligent could fully appreciate, along with his strength, charm, compassion, toughness, love, loyalty, dedication, and trustworthiness. Dave was known for his straightforwardness and NEVER sugar-coating his words!

An anecdote that captures David's essence is his involvement in the Navy Special Forces before it was officially recognized as a designated position. He impacted the lives of others by always being there to help, especially those who were considered The Underdogs.

David Joe Rupp “DAVE” will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched with his humor, kindness, and unwavering support.