Celebrating Dick Weiss
65 Years of Dedication to the Ohio Valley Region Porsche Club of America
In the heart of Cincinnati, Ohio, one name stands out among Porsche enthusiasts: Dick Weiss. A founding member of the Ohio Valley Region (OVR) of the Porsche Club of America (PCA), Dick joined the PCA in 1960 and, as of 2025, is celebrating an extraordinary 65 years of membership. Recognized as the 10th longest-serving member of the PCA, Dick’s passion for Porsches and his unwavering commitment to the OVRPCA have left an indelible mark on the club and its community. This article celebrates Dick Weiss’s legacy, his contributions to the OVRPCA, and his lifelong love for Porsche vehicles.
A Founding Vision for the Ohio Valley Region
In the early 1960s, Dick Weiss and a small group of Porsche enthusiasts in the Cincinnati area came together with a shared vision: to create a community dedicated to celebrating Porsche vehicles and fostering camaraderie among owners. Their efforts culminated in the establishment of the Ohio Valley Region PCA, a chapter that now boasts approximately 1,800 members, including 1,200 primary members and 600 affiliates. The OVRPCA serves a wide geographic area, covering counties in southeast Indiana, northern Kentucky, southern Ohio, and parts of West Virginia, hosting over 30 events annually, from social gatherings to high-performance driving education, autocross, rallies, and Concours d’Elegance events.
Dick was instrumental in laying the foundation for this vibrant community. As one of the original founders, he helped petition the PCA to establish the OVR chapter, setting the stage for decades of events that would bring Porsche owners together to share their passion. His early involvement included serving in various officer positions, helping to shape the club’s structure and culture in its formative years.
A Porsche 356 Expert and Enthusiast
Dick’s love for Porsches, particularly the iconic Porsche 356, is legendary within the OVRPCA. Known as an “encyclopedia of knowledge” for all things related to the 356, Dick has rebuilt numerous 356 engines in the Cincinnati area, earning a reputation as a go-to expert for this classic model. The Porsche 356, produced from 1948 to 1965, is celebrated for its sleek design and engineering innovation, and Dick’s expertise has helped preserve these vehicles for future generations. His hands-on approach to maintenance and restoration has made him a respected figure among local Porschephiles.
The Porsche 356 holds a special place in the history of the PCA, as it was one of the first models to inspire the club’s formation in 1955. Dick’s dedication to this model mirrors the PCA’s mission to enhance the Porsche ownership experience through technical expertise, social engagement, and competitive events. His contributions have ensured that the spirit of the 356 lives on in the Ohio Valley Region.
A Community Leader and Celebrated Member
Beyond his technical expertise, Dick Weiss has been a pillar of the OVRPCA community. His 65 years of membership reflect not only his love for Porsches but also his commitment to fostering a sense of belonging among club members. The OVRPCA is known for its diverse range of events, including monthly board meetings, wine tastings, charity auctions, new member parties, and year-end celebrations. These gatherings provide opportunities for members to connect, share their passion for Porsches, and build lasting friendships. Dick’s presence at these events, whether as a participant or a leader, has helped create a welcoming environment for both new and seasoned members.
In 2023, when Dick celebrated his 89th birthday, the OVRPCA, along with the Drei Staaten Gruppe and the Cincinnati Motoring Society, organized a surprise celebration at the re-opened MetalKraft facility. Between 50 and 75 car enthusiasts from the Tristate area gathered to honor Dick, singing “Happy Birthday” and celebrating his contributions to the local motoring community. This heartfelt event underscored the deep respect and admiration that Dick commands among his peers.
The following year, in 2024, the OVRPCA marked Dick’s 90th birthday, further highlighting his enduring legacy. As one of the club’s founding members, Dick has witnessed the evolution of the OVRPCA from its humble beginnings to a thriving organization that hosts events like the Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance, a nationally recognized automotive event held in the historic Ault Park. The 2025 Concours, themed “Icons of British Motoring,” will continue to showcase automotive excellence, a tradition that Dick’s early efforts helped inspire.
The Ohio Valley Region PCA: A Thriving Community
Today, the OVRPCA is a dynamic chapter within Zone 4 of the PCA, which encompasses 12 regions in the north-central United States. The club’s calendar is packed with events that cater to a wide range of interests, from Cars and Coffee gatherings to scenic drives through the twisty backroads of Greater Cincinnati. For example, on August 2, 2025, the OVRPCA will host a Cars and Coffee event at Austin’s Landing in Miamisburg, Ohio, sponsored by White-Allen Porsche, offering enthusiasts a chance to admire stunning cars and engage in lively conversations. Another event, a spirited drive through Cincinnati’s scenic roads, is planned for later in the summer, concluding with a lunch hosted by Porsche of the Village.
The OVRPCA’s commitment to community is evident in events like Gemeinschaft at Oakley Greens, a family- and dog-friendly gathering featuring miniature golf, live music, and reserved seating for members. These events reflect the club’s motto, “It’s Not Just The Cars...It’s The People!”—a sentiment that Dick Weiss has embodied throughout his 65 years of membership.
A Legacy of Passion and Dedication
Dick Weiss’s 65-year journey with the PCA is a testament to his passion for Porsches and his dedication to the Ohio Valley Region. As the 10th longest-serving member of the PCA, Dick has played a pivotal role in shaping the OVRPCA into the vibrant community it is today. His expertise with the Porsche 356, his leadership in the club’s early days, and his ongoing presence at events have made him a beloved figure in Cincinnati’s automotive scene.
As the OVRPCA continues to grow and host events that bring Porsche enthusiasts together, Dick’s legacy serves as a reminder of the power of community and shared passion. Congratulations to Dick Weiss on 65 years of membership, and thank you for your unwavering dedication to the Ohio Valley Region and the Porsche Club of America. Here’s to many more years of celebrating Porsches and the people who love them.