Gary “Chopit” Fioto. Photo from Chopit Kustom’s Facebook Page.

Word began to trickle out on Monday, May 30th, when Chopit Kustom released a statement on their Facebook page: “Due to unforseen circumstances we are sad to announce that our open house will be cancelled. We apologize for any inconveniences. Please spread the word.”

A short time later, the social media began to rumble with the news that legendary kustom builder, and founder of Chopit Kustom, Gary Fioto had passed away. Less than a day later, the official news was released from the family, “Early Monday morning we lost Gary Chopit Fioto. Chopit was a true craftsman and devoted husband and father. Thank you for your condolences & respect at this difficult time. – The Chopit Family”

The family has not released any cause of death or other information. We respect their need for privacy  and offer our most sincere condolences and warmest thoughts in this time of great loss.

Gary Fioto with his sons and the famous 1955 Ford “Beatnik” car. Photo from www.kustomrama.com

Gary Fioto was known as a guy that marched to his own drummer with a creativity beyond anything the Kustom car Kulture had experienced in decades. We respected the his style of being his own man and not bound by style rules or cultural guides. From the mild builds to the wild builds, “Chopit” Fioto did it his way.

Godspeed Chopit. We are all a lot less today because of his passing.