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Justin Wilson saves 6 lives after his death

Justin Wilson died Monday, one day after he was hit by debris from another car during a race. He helped others by becoming an organ donor
IndyCar driver's organ donations help save six lives 02:41

The racing community continues to mourn the death of IndyCar racer Justin Wilson, but it's what he's done after his life ended that has so many people talking about the man away from the track, reports CBS News correspondent Adriana Diaz.

"I wanted to make him as proud as I was of him, because I was immensely proud of him," Wilson's brother Stefan said.

He loved his older brother, who did what older brothers do -- lead by example.

"He was the best role model that anyone could have, you know," Stefan said. "He did so many things right and I'm just going to miss him so much."

Wilson died Monday after a crash at a track in Pennsylvania over the weekend. The 37-year-old wasn't in the wrecked racer, but was struck in the head by a piece of flying debris from the crash.

Wilson never recovered, but even after death he found a way to give life.

"I didn't want him to do it. I just wanted to keep him how he was, keep him, preserve him, you know," Stefan said.

The seven-time IndyCar winner donated his vital organs -- immediately helping six people in desperate need.

"It was a tough decision and it ended up being something that helped saved peoples' lives," Wilson said. "It just shows what kind of character he was, that he was so selfless and so giving."

justin-stefan-1.jpg
Justin Wilson, left, with younger brother, Stefan. CHRIS OWENS

On the track, Wilson was a world-class racecar driver, and a mentor to his younger brother, who also races professionally. Off the track, Wilson was a loving husband, father to two young girls and a friend.

"He was always teaching me something and I am going to miss that," Stefan said. "He's not there for me to call up and ask him for some advice."

Wilson stood at 6 feet 4 inches tall -- big for a racer -- but his intoxicating charm and respect for others was just as big as his stature. Fans mourned his death with a memorial outside Indianapolis Motor Speedway Tuesday.

"I'm out of tears. I've cried so much, sobbed so much, there's nothing left; it's dry," Stefan said. "I just want to be strong for him and his wife and kids."

Stefan said despite this tragedy, he will continue to race. Racing is the great passion he shared with his brother.

Those interested helping the Wilson family and his two daughters can reach out to:

Wilson Children's Fund

c/o Forum Credit Union

P.O. Box 50738

Indianapolis, IN 46250-0738

Phone: (317) 558-6000

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