Kenneth Lee Christy

Kenneth Lee Christy, lovingly known as “Ken,” passed away peacefully on January 4, 2026, at the age of 80. He was born on April 14, 1945, in Southgate, California, to H.T.  and Floy Christy.

In his early years, Ken grew up traveling throughout California as his family followed his father’s work as a heavy equipment operator constructing highways, including Highway 395. Their journeys took them through Bishop, Lee Vining, Bridgeport, Independence, California and Beatty Nevada, eventually settling in Van Nuys, California.

Ken attended Birmingham High School, where he excelled in auto mechanics, a passion that stayed with him for the rest of his life. After graduating from high school, he began working at Rocketdyne while also starting his lifelong involvement in drag racing alongside his father. Their team proudly raced under the name “Pop and Son Christy”.

In 1964, Ken met the love of his life, Willy Stigthans. They married in 1965 and shared 60 wonderful years together. 

Ken joined the Army Reserves in 1966. After his service, he worked for Chevrolet. In 1969, Ken suffered a serious burn injury that forced him to retire from drag racing. In 1970, Ken was accepted into the Local Electrical Union as an apprentice and, within a short time, became a journeyman wireman. His work ethic, skill, and integrity defined his career. 

In 1976, Ken and Willy moved to Bodfish, California, drawn by their love of boating on lake. He was also a skilled water skier and vintage flatbottom enthusiast.  Ken went to work for A/C Electric in Bakersfield, and in 1983 courageously started their own business, Canyon Electric.  Where most of his customers became lasting friends.  Ken’s passion for classic cars never faded. In 1977, he began building a 1930 Model A and founded the Kernville Street Rods, serving as its president for 16 years. 

In 2009, Ken returned to his love of drag racing by restoring a 1937 Chevy Coupe, completing it in 2011, where He and Willy made lasting memories at Famoso Drag Strip. Ken raced one final time in November 2025, reaching his fastest speed of 142 MPH. A triumphant and fitting farewell to the sport he loved.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Willy; his two daughters, Tina and her husband Joe, and Michele and her husband Danny; four grandchildren, Damian, Krysten, Kalee, and Shelby and ten great-grandchildren. Please join us at Famoso Drag Strip for the ANRA Season Opener, April 17–19, where his grandson Damian will take him on his final pass down the track.