Center Grove Lutheran Cemetery

This cemetery stands down the street from the current location of its church, Center Grove Lutheran, and it is one of the most historical resting places in North Carolina. The most famous resident is Dale Earnhardt's father, Ralph, another Kannapolis legend. He used to be known as "Mr. Dirt Track" because he was a NASCAR modified, Sportsman, and Grand National Champion, with 350 victories to his name in over 23 years. Ralph died of a heart attack, doing what he loved -- fixing his car. Losing Ralph made Dale even more determined to be a successful driver. Ralph's headstone faces the road near the back corner of the cemetery. There is parking on the grass just outside the fence, but please be respectful.