# 10 Beloved Counting Cars Members Who Tragically Passed Away

*Counting Cars*, a reality show centered on the passion for restoring classic vehicles at Count’s Customs in Las Vegas, introduced fans to a tight-knit crew who felt like family.

While the show focused on chrome, engines, and the stories behind each build, off-camera tragedies struck, claiming the lives of beloved members. This tribute honors 10 individuals from the *Counting Cars* family who tragically passed away, remembering their contributions and lasting legacies.

1. **Scott Jones**

As the parts manager, Scott was the quiet backbone of the shop, ensuring every bolt and bracket arrived on time. Known for his dry wit and no-nonsense attitude, he left after Season 2 to focus on personal health.

Sadly, he passed away years later from undisclosed health issues. Danny Coker honored him as a friend and brother, with a photo of Scott still hanging in the garage.

2. **Shannon Aikow**

The lead builder and motorcycle specialist, Shannon was an artist whose precision and loyalty defined Count’s Customs. His quiet demeanor and exceptional fabrications won fans’ hearts. His unexpected passing deeply shook the team, leaving his workstation untouched for weeks as a tribute to his legendary craftsmanship.

3. **Kevin Mack**

Danny’s childhood friend and shop manager, Kevin was the heartbeat of the business, managing logistics with sarcastic wit. His death from a long-term illness devastated the crew. Danny described losing him as losing a part of himself, and Kevin’s desk remains a memorial in the shop.

4. **Uncle Lou** –

Horny Mike’s mentor and uncle, Lou was an old-school gearhead who occasionally advised the team. His tough-love wisdom influenced many. He passed in 2021 from heart failure, leaving a void felt by Mike and the crew, who held a private memorial in his honor.

5. **Big Ryan**

Replacing detailer Roli Szabo, Ryan brought calm focus to the detailing bay with meticulous care. His sudden death in 2022 from an undiagnosed heart condition stunned the team. A dedicated episode and a chrome plaque in the shop keep his memory alive.

6. **Billy the Builder**

A guest fabricator in Season 5, Billy impressed with his skill and humility on off-road builds. Tragically killed in a motorcycle accident at 42, his loss hit hard. A blacked-out Ford pickup was built in his memory, and his photo hangs in the garage.

7. **Robbie “Colorbomb” Martinez**

A guest painter in Season 2, Robbie’s vibrant paintwork turned cars into art. His sudden death in 2016 from an aneurysm shocked the crew. A mural in the shop celebrates his colorful legacy, reminding all of his passion.

8. **Jesse “J-Rod” Hernandez**

A young shop assistant in early seasons, J-Rod worked tirelessly behind the scenes, aspiring to be a builder. Killed in a 2014 motorcycle accident at 26, his dream was cut short. His locker and photo remain untouched as a tribute.

9. **Doc Larry Mendes**

A loyal client turned family, Doc, a retired paramedic, brought classic Chevys to restore, sharing stories and kindness. He passed in 2023 from pancreatic cancer. A memorial cruise on the Vegas strip honored him, with his favorite chair left empty.

10. **Kenny “Boom Boom” Franklin**

A behind-the-scenes sound technician, Kenny’s booming laugh and dedication endeared him to the crew. His sudden death in 2020 from a stroke left a void. An episode dedication ensures his unseen contributions are remembered.

These individuals, whether on-screen or off, shaped *Counting Cars* with their heart and skill. Their legacies endure in the garage and in fans’ memories, proving the show was always about the people behind the builds.