Dexter Allen Serpa Sr.
April 4, 1945 - Aug. 29, 2017

CLEARLAKE, Calif. – Dexter Allen Serpa Sr., known as Big Dex and Senior, passed away peacefully in his Clearlake home on Aug. 29, 2017.

Born in Cloverdale, Calif., to Manuel and Ora Serpa, he graduated from Lower Lake High School in 1964.

In 1969, he met his wife, Darlene Serpa, in Lake County, where they soon wed and had two children.

Father to Dexter Serpa Jr. and Deana Clausen, he built a life in Lake County centered on his family.

While a longtime resident of Clearlake, Dexter Sr. will most be remembered for his love of cars, racing and family.

As a self-taught mechanic, he owned and operated two auto shops, including D&D’s Foreign Automotive and Dexter’s Auto Barn in Clearlake.

He spent decades leading the crew of his son’s number 97 racing team at Lakeport Speedway and at tracks across the West Coast.

Dexter is preceded in death by his parents, Manuel and Ora. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Darlene Serpa; sister, Roberta (Marvin) Cavallero; son, Dexter (Tammy) Serpa Jr; daughter, Deana (Craig) Clausen; and grandchildren, Bailey Serpa, Madison Serpa and Hunter Clausen; as well as numerous extended family members and friends.

Dexter will be laid to rest at Lower Lake Cemetery. Please join us for a graveside memorial service to honor his life and memory on Tuesday, Sept. 12, at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you take the time to enjoy an event at your closest small town race track or make a donation to a local race team.

“Racing IS Life. Anything before or after is just waiting.” ~ Steve McQueen

Arrangements are under the care of Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611, or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com.