Bobby Meeks

Robert E. Meeks (July 17, 1921 – August 8, 2006) was an American hot rod engine builder and chief mechanic to famed hot rod driver and auto parts designer Vic Edelbrock. Meeks was pioneer in the early days of hot-rodding and was considered the first Ford flathead guru.

Meeks was born in St. Louis, Missouri. When he was just 15 years old, Vic Edelbrock found Meeks hanging around his repair garage and offered him a job, asking "wanna get your hands dirty?" Meeks became Edelbrock's first employee and never worked for anyone else. Meeks was like a brother to Vic and was next to him the day his only son was born, Vic Edelbrock, Jr.

In 1942, Meeks joined the U.S. Navy and served four years as a Gunner's Mate in World War II. The latter was the first American car to break to 200 mph barrier at the Bonneville Salt Flats.

Meeks died in 2006 at the age of 85.

References and further reading