Gregory K. Socha, age 66, of Kalamazoo passed away Wednesday, July 8, 2026. Greg was born August 22, 1959, in Chicago, IL, the son of Stanley and Catherine (VanHaften) Socha.

After graduating from Kalamazoo Central High School in 1977, Greg went on to work for Stryker Medical. As a Product Designer for Stryker, he excelled in his profession, and was known for his technical expertise, attention to detail, and talent for turning ideas into reality. With the dream of starting his own manufacturing business, Greg then went on to found Redline Manufacturing. Starting out in his garage over 35 years ago, he turned that business into a successful manufacturing company. Greg served as President of Redline Mfg. for several decades before retiring in 2021. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, dedication, and ingenuity – qualities that defined his career and character.

One of Greg’s greatest passions was racing. His love for motorsports was apparent from a young age. He began his racing career in motocross during his teens and twenties, before spending the next several decades racing cars at tracks across the Midwest. His most recent passion was racing dirt track Modifieds. Everyone who met Greg knew he had a brilliant mind for mechanics, and he was truly in his element when racing.

Beyond his professional and racing accomplishments, Greg was known for his lifelong appreciation for the unconventional and nostalgic. He loved science fiction, Kustom Kulture art, mid-century modern design, and cult cinema. He also found great joy in caring for his four bulldogs over the years—Lola, Louie, Nelson, and Milton – whose distinctive personalities and companionship brought him happiness.

Most importantly, Greg will be remembered for how much he loved and cared for his family. He adored his two daughters, who carry with them many fond memories of running around his shop as kids, cheering him on at the racetrack, and having him there for all the big moments in life. His family will cherish many memories of him – as son, husband, dad, and grandpa. He will be deeply missed.

Surviving are two daughters, Jami (Kiel Phegley) Socha-Phegley and Carrie (Stephen) Rusko, his parents, Stanley and Catherine Socha; his former spouse and the mother of his children, Donna Socha; four grandchildren, Grace Phegley and Maxwell Phegley, Jacob Rusko and Mila
Rusko. He is preceded in death by his aunt, Carol VanHaften.