Albert da Costa Sochin
Albert da Costa Sochin, beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away on December 6, 2024, in Santa Barbara, California.
Al was born on January 28, 1946, in Toledo, Ohio, the eldest of 6 children. His father, a Metropolitan Opera singer, moved the family to Zurich in the early 1960s where Al would finish high school and attend Movenpick, earning the equivalent of a BA in Culinary/Food Science and Accounting. He then moved to California to work in the hospitality industry. Al had a long and varied career in business and was a mentor to many who were touched by his generosity and guidance.
He earned his MA in Management & Organizational Development at Fielding Graduate University in Santa Barbara and was an extension professor at UCLA.
Al had a lifelong passion for German cars and custom-made guitars. Three of his siblings shared his passion for guitars and wherever they were, a guitar was sure to be stashed close by, ensuring that the Sochin house was filled with music.
An accomplished chef, he found joy in cooking for his wife Georganne while their two small pups, Lucky and Roxie, filled their home with comfort – and much barking.
For the past 12 plus years Al devoted himself to the practice of Koeikan Karate, earning his black belt. In the words of his teacher Jack M. Sabat, “da Costa Sensei moved the hearts and souls of so many in martial arts. He left us all, as he lived; A wise soldier, devoted individual, and martial artist on the dedicated path to “Enlightenment”.
Al is survived by his wife Georganne Alex of Santa Barbara, CA.
His memory lives on with his sons; Erik John Henry Sochin, Long Beach, CA; Jeremy Christopher Sochin (Connie) Luzern, Switzerland; step-son Nicholas Long, (Julia) Pasadena, CA. His six grandchildren, Kyuss, Natas, Kelvin, Rachel, Honor and Pierce. His four siblings; Christopher Sochin, Jonathan Sochin, Jennifer (Sochin) Connor and Gregory Sochin. Many nephews and nieces will also miss “Uncle Skip.”
Al was predeceased by son Micah James Gregory, sister Mary (Sochin) Adams and parents Albert Sochin da Costa Sr, and Jean (Rower) Sochin
A celebration of Al’s life will be held in June.
Donations in Al’s memory may be made to the Gaviota Coast Conservancy
https://www.gaviotacoastconservancy.org/