In the heart of the West Valley, one man’s journey through unimaginable loss has become a beacon of hope for countless others. Gordon Wickert, a dedicated community leader and man of deep faith, has turned personal tragedy into a life of purpose following the loss of his beloved son, Andrew James.
Andrew’s love for the animated character Lightning McQueen lives on in an extraordinary way—through a life-sized replica of the iconic race car, lovingly built by Gordon himself. Every detail was crafted with care, including one deeply personal touch: the eyes of Lightning McQueen were custom-matched to the same striking color as Andrew’s. It’s a subtle but powerful tribute to a son gone too soon.
But this red car is more than a memorial—it’s a mission. Gordon has transformed his grief into joyful service, volunteering his time to bring smiles to children and families across the West Valley. He brings Lightning McQueen to birthday parties, charity events, hospital visits, and community gatherings, using the beloved character as a vehicle for connection, comfort, and joy.
As he cruises through neighborhoods in Surprise, Arizona, Gordon is met with waves, cheers, and sometimes tears—emotional moments that reflect the lasting impact he makes. Through this blend of devotion and compassion, Gordon keeps Andrew’s memory alive while creating magical moments for others, one smile at a time.
Beyond the sports car and the moving story behind it, Gordon is also a devoted youth pastor. For more than 20 years, he has mentored and inspired young people, encouraging them to find strength in scripture—especially in life’s toughest moments. His book, Hope in Numbers, offers a fresh perspective on faith and resilience, using numbers as daily reminders of biblical truths.
Gordon is also an active figure at Tones N Bones, a local nonprofit focused on youth outreach and engagement. Whether he’s organizing events, speaking to teens, or lending a hand, he’s always ready to serve.
His story, and Andrew’s legacy, have been featured on local news, spreading a message of faith, healing, and hope. For Gordon Wickert, grief became ministry—and sorrow transformed into service.
"This red car is more than a memorial—it’s a mission."