Alex Xydias, the legendary founder of SO-CAL Speed Shop in Burbank, California, has passed away. He was 102.

Xydias was also instrumental in the beginning of the SEMA Show; as an editor and publisher of Hot Rod Industry News, he helped organize the High Performance & Custom Equipment Trade Show, held at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles in January 1967, a show that SEMA became increasingly involved with the management of, and eventually took over.

He was inducted into the SEMA Hall of Fame in 1982. Click here to read his SEMA Hall of Fame biography, and see the Xydias family statement below:

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Alex Xydias, who left us peacefully on August 24 from complications of COVID at the awe-inspiring age of 102.  

A pioneer in the automotive industry, a master storyteller, and the visionary behind So-Cal Speed Shop, among a multitude of other accomplishments, Alex lived a dynamic life. His many achievements and innovative contributions to the automotive world will forever stand as reminders of his enthusiasm and unwavering commitment to the car community he loved so much. Alex’s warmth, wit, and vibrant spirit will be greatly missed by hot rod enthusiasts worldwide, his devoted circle of friends, and most of all, his family. Alex is survived by his 3 children, 7 granddaughters, and 13 great-grandchildren. 

We want to thank everyone for their outpouring of love and support during this time. Alex’s legacy will forever be etched in the history of racing and in the hearts of those who had the honor of knowing him.