The NASCAR world mourns the loss of Andy Nelson, a Joe Gibbs Racing tire and interior specialist, better known as “Doggie” to those he held close to his heart. On October 13, Nelson quietly passed away in his sleep, aged 39. Born in Dalles, Oregon, but based in Mooresville, North Carolina for his job, he was an enlightening presence for JGR’s ARCA program on the #18 car.

A few weeks back, Nelson celebrated William Sawalich winning the East Series championship at Bristol after a stellar three-win season. Now, the entire Joe Gibbs Racing family reels from this heartbreaking news. Their posthumous tribute to the man on social media sums up the deep impact that his loss holds in the grander scheme of things.

Joe Gibbs Racing mourns the loss of beloved specialist “Doggie” Nelson

JGR’s Instagram statement read, “Andy was a beloved member of our ARCA team and the NASCAR garage. He had a passion for racing and was always willing to lend a helping hand. We are deeply saddened by the loss of Doggie and praying for his family and friends.” From what we gather, Andy’s sister, Kayla, and mother, Laurie, will miss him deeply. Our heartfelt condolences go out to these strong women during such difficult times.

With over a decade of experience in the NASCAR circuit, there is no doubt Nelson was making all the right moves in his life. His Facebook bio says: “Life’s been good to me so far,” and there could be no better testament. He’s been with teams like Dave Blaney Racing, Turner Scott Motorsports, and MDM Motorsports in the past before his move to Joe Gibbs Racing in 2019. But on top of that, Nelson has won multiple ARCA championships with guys like Sawalich, Harrison Burton & Justin Haley. However, most would remember him for being a part of Ryan Blaney’s debut NASCAR K&N East Series race-winning team at Phoenix in 2011.

Nelson’s immense character honorably came to light by NASCAR Xfinity Series fueler, Jennifer Carandillo, who was a close friend of the man. In a chilling statement, she wrote, “Really sad to wake up and hear about Andy Nelson‘s passing. We all knew him as ‘Doggie’. I literally just saw him out last night & he looked fine! To say we’re all in complete shock is an understatement. Andy was very kind, always gave me advice on fueling and racing ‘stuff’…a lil gossip too! He was a very experienced mechanic, worked for many teams in NASCAR over the years… Andy will forever be missed & this one hits hard. Rest in peace Andy, we will never forget you ‘Doggie’.” 

And as the distressing bearings came across the wider NASCAR community, the tributes kept pouring in.

A life cut too short

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“Rest in Peace Doggie. The racing team has an angel as a spotter now,” wrote one member of the NASCAR community on social media, who must be aware of Nelson’s “jack of all trades” status at David Stremme Racing in his earlier days. Others sent “Prayers for his family.” writing things like, “May God wrap his arms around you and keep you safe and strong to get you through this time.” Indeed, the spirit of a man with his caliber deserves a safe passage to the heavens.

One fan commented, “Gone too soon, condolences to his friends, family and team,” while another replied, “May he rest in peace” wherever he is.

We at EssentiallySports will be praying for his family, just like the rest of the NASCAR community. Let this moment be a well-deserved pit stop for a guy who’s been the fixer of countless problems for drivers over the years.