Just saw on Facebook through reliable sources that Richard Zocchi has passed away. As a younger guy who missed the time period for the early customizers, I've always looked to guys like Zocchi, D'Agostino, Billy Abate, etc., as some of the finest custom builders and designers. This is another huge loss to the custom car world.
sad news. as a sort of honor to the man, i used to call a friend of mine the richard zocchi of northwest indiana. he would always smile. rest in peace
Met Richard back in the mid 90's when I was doing the show car thing. Even thou we usually were in the same class I respected him as a competitor and always appreciated his style, real tasteful and clean. A guy could study his cars and learn a thing or two on building a good looking custom. RIP Mr. Zocchi.
I'm shocked. Haven't seen Richard for years, since moving here to the armpit of Ca. Ribbed him lots about his next project after 'Cool '50', his '53 Ford convert on the GM chassis. I had a '53 Vic, (also a custom, but not chopped) Kidded him about imitating, "ya wanted ta be...'jus' LIKE me!" Real genuine guy, always hoped to see him again...
A shock to hear - Thanks for info - sincere sympathy goes out to his Family & friends Sent from my VS985 4G using The H.A.M.B. mobile app
Wow that's terrible news. I remember when I was a teenager, I used to go and hang out at John Aiello's shop in Antioch where many of Zochis cars were built. He would come down and check on the progress and he would take time to talk to me and was not a jerk. He never had that "leave me alone kid" attitude with me. Sent from my iPhone using The H.A.M.B. mobile app