Chris Mark Raschke

It is with deep sorrow that we share the passing of Chris Mark Raschke on August 3, 2025, at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. Chris was a beloved son, husband, father, and grandpa. Losing him so unexpectedly has been heartbreaking for everyone who knew and loved him.

Chris was born on June 19, 1964, at Community Memorial Hospital in Ventura, California, to Vernon and Alice Raschke. He called Ventura home for all of his 61 years, and will be deeply missed by his community and all who knew him.

Chris shared his life with his loving wife, Connie, and their children: Kenny, Kristoph, Carly, Brooke Craig (Chris), and Kiley Keeter. He was a proud grandpa to Colt, Piper, and Renley. His cousins, Mike Raschke (Jennifer) and Jared Raschke.

Chris had an incredible passion for life and a heart that was always open. He loved spending time with his family—whether it was a weekend at the lake, barbequing at home, or exploring new places together. Nothing made him happier than teaming up with his kids for a “Record Run”, where they’d change a water heater, mow the lawn, change oil, or track down a mystery noise under the hood.

He never missed an opportunity to make others feel special, especially to his wife, Connie—always remembering the little things that made her smile, regularly sending beautiful flowers to show his love and support. Chris had a way of lighting up every room with his quick wit, generous heart, and unmistakable smile. He was the life of every gathering, and his presence brought joy wherever he went.

An avid lover of engines and speed, Chris embraced the thrill of racing. At 16, he began working at Ventura Raceway as their first official employee. He raced ATC three wheelers and his Ford Pinto in the mini stock division with his cousin Mike Raschke at the racetrack. He then began working at Duttweiler Automotive in 1983, working at the side of master engine builder Kenny Duttweiler. He became deeply involved in working on and maintaining engines in race cars, as well as race boats. His friendship with Steve Watt is what led him to being part of the Speed Demon Race team helping chase land speed records. In 1996, he was hired at Automotive Racing Products and became the Director of Sales and New Products. In the scope of his duties at ARP, he interfaced with engine builders, engineers, designers and competitors all over the world. He was very much hands on and had a remarkable ability to look at an assembly or a design from a practical point of view and offer suggestions to improve it. He was very much trusted and respected for his depth of knowledge and experience in the industry. He got to know so many new people through his job, but also remained friends with them due to his upbeat personality, his positive, “will find a way” attitude and love of the sport. All ARP employees are in shock at the news of his passing and there is a noticeable void at all the ARP manufacturing shops. For Chris, working at ARP was not just a job - it was something he truly loved doing.

Known for his tireless work ethic and dedication, Chris had a rare gift for making others feel seen and valued. Yet, it was his radiant smile, quick wit and warm spirit that truly set him apart. He listened more than he spoke, offering words of wisdom when they were needed most. His positivity was contagious and had an uncanny way of lifting spirits wherever he went.

In honor of Chris, let us remember to celebrate life, cherish our loved ones and pursue our passions with the same fearlessness and joy that Chris embraced every single day.

A “Celebration of Life” will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at ARP 265 Dove Court, Santa Paula, 93060 from 1pm – 4pm. Please wear your favorite race shirt and jeans, just as Chris would.

In lieu of flowers, the family has set up a Chris Raschke Memorial Scholarship, established by SEMA. This new scholarship will ensure that his legacy continues by providing opportunities for students who share his passion in performance, engineering and excellence. You can contribute in Chris’ memory using this link: https://sites.sema.org/scholarships/donate.php#!/SEMA-Scholarship-Chris-Raschke/p/774072557/category=0