Join us in bidding a heartfelt farewell to a true legend, Hot Rod Icon, Pete Chapouris III. Sadly, Pete passed away aged 76 on January 6th, peacefully in hospital and surrounded by family. A native of El Monte, California, Pete established a name for himself in the mid 50’s after he acquired his very first car: a Model A coupé, channeled over Deuce rails. Throughout the 60’s, Pete was an active member of the So-Cal hot rod scene.

His flamed 1934 Ford coupé gained him fame when it featured on the cover on the November 1973 issue of Rod & Custom Magazine. After this issue, Pete’s name became synonymous with the hot rod scene, serving as the impetus behind the launch of Pete & Jakes Hot Rod Repair, which opened in Temple City, California in 1974.

Farewell to a true Kustom Kulture icon. May he rest in Kustom heaven!”