The Egyptian Custom Body and Paint

Located in Dayton, Ohio, "The Egyptian Custom Body and Paint" stands as a monument to the life and work of Don Boeke, a renowned custom car builder, pinstriper, and painter. Known affectionately as "The Egyptian" due to his birthplace in Egypt, Ohio, Boeke's establishment is more than a workshop; it's a crucible where passion for automotive artistry and creativity is forged into tangible masterpieces.

Don Boeke's 1957 Ford Convertible. Boeke built the Ford after he was discharged from the US Navy. Taken circa 1960, this photo shows the car after he had painted pearl scallops on it and dressed it up with lake pipes, custom hubcaps, and a Canadian grille.

The Roach Coach was a bubble top show rod built by Don, Dan Woods, and Jim Jacobs for Roach, Inc. Designed by Ed Newton, the build was completed in 1978.

Don Boeke's 1961 Chevrolet Corvette. Boeke bought the car in 1961 and started restyling it immediately after he got it. He parked the car after opening up his own business, and he took it out many years later and turned it into the bubbletopped Ramses II. Inspired by Ron Aguirre's X-Sonic, the build was completed in 2020. Photo courtesy of Shutterfuel.

Located in Dayton, Ohio, "The Egyptian Custom Body and Paint" stands as a monument to the life and work of Don Boeke, a renowned custom car builder, pinstriper, and painter. Known affectionately as "The Egyptian" due to his birthplace in Egypt, Ohio, Boeke's establishment is more than a workshop; it's a crucible where passion for automotive artistry and creativity is forged into tangible masterpieces.

Early Beginnings: A Passion Ignited

Don Boeke's journey into the world of automotive customization began in his high school years with a hands-on project – a '51 Ford Convertible. This early venture into car customization was not just a hobby but a prelude to his lifelong passion. His high school days were also marked by his initial forays into pinstriping cars. "When I got home from school, there was always a couple there," Boeke told James Hannah of the Associated Press in 2008. Charging $10 to $15 per job, he began to see the potential in his skill.

Naval Service: Shaping the Craftsman

Boeke's path took a detour through a four-year stint with the U.S. Navy, a period that only deepened his love for automotive work. Upon his return, he dove back into customization with a '57 Ford Convertible, undertaking extensive modifications including emblem removal, lowering, and interior customization. This project was a testament to Boeke's growing expertise, carried out in a modest garage space he rented for fifteen dollars a month.

The Californian Experience: Refining Skills

Boeke's quest for mastery led him to California, the epicenter of automotive customization at the time. Here, he worked with some of the industry's legends, absorbing techniques and styles that would greatly influence his future creations. This experience was crucial in honing his craft and shaping his unique style.

The Birth of "The Egyptian Custom Body and Paint"

In 1966, Boeke translated his accumulated experience and skill into his own venture, "The Egyptian Custom Body and Paint." This establishment in Dayton was not merely a business endeavor; it was the embodiment of Boeke's dedication and artistic vision. Here, vehicles were not just repaired; they were transformed into pieces of art, reflecting the personal touch and creative flair of Boeke. Boeke was still in business in 2023. Located in an old sign and fixture manufacturing plant, Egyptian Body spans nearly 60,000 square feet and is filled with cars, trucks, and an array of automotive wonders. This space isn't just a workshop; it's a pinstripe boutique and a testament to Boeke's life-long dedication to automotive artistry.

Cars Built or Restyled by The Egyptian Custom Body and Paint

Don Boeke's 1961 Chevrolet Corvette - Ramses II
The Roach Coach