George J. Bluga

George J. Bluga, age 65, a longtime resident of South Lyon, passed away on July 23, 2026. He was born on October 6, 1960 in Detroit, Michigan; son of John and Irene (Constas) Bluga. He graduated from Bentley High School in Livonia with the class of 1979. George was united in marriage to Linda Cooley on May 21, 2021, they spent a total of 11 years lovingly devoted to one another.

George began his career with Ford Motor Company at the Woodhaven Stamping Plant before transferring to the Livonia Transmission Plant. He dedicated more than 30 years to Ford, before retiring in 2019.

George was a master fabricator whose talent, creativity, and craftsmanship were unmatched. Over the course of his life, he built more than 100 vehicles from the ground up, specializing in race cars and hot rods. His exceptional work earned numerous awards, and he was especially proud that two of his custom builds were selected as Great 8 contenders at the prestigious Detroit Autorama. George showcased his vehicles at Autorama and countless car shows across the United States, and his craftsmanship was recognized in Hot Rod Magazine. Among his most memorable creations was the legendary rat rod, "Dirty Sanchez," which won the Bavarian Heritage Cup Stein at the Frankenmuth Auto Fest in 2010.

A passionate drag racer, George spent countless hours at his home track, Milan Dragway, and was an active member of the National Muscle Car Association. He was deeply respected within the hot rod and drag racing community, not only for his remarkable skill but also for his generosity. George was always willing to lend a hand to a fellow enthusiast, whether it meant stopping to help someone stranded on the side of the road or opening the doors of his home workshop several days a week to share his knowledge, tools, and friendship. His love for cars was only surpassed by the relationships he built through the hobby, leaving a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

George was well liked by everyone who knew him and was known for his big smile, outgoing personality, and quick sense of humor. A natural jokester, he loved making people laugh. Over the years, he formed many lifelong friendships, and family was always at the center of George's life. He especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren outdoors riding motorcycles, four-wheelers, and golf carts, or making memories together at the waterpark. Whether working in the shop, attending a race, or simply enjoying time with family and friends, George appreciated the people around him and the experiences they shared. His legacy will live on in the many lives he touched, the friendships he cherished, and the family he loved so deeply. He will be greatly missed and forever remembered.

George is survived by his loving wife, Linda Bluga; his brother, Peter (Donna Sharp) Bluga; his stepdaughters Jade Mease and Amberly Knott; his grandchildren, Anthony, Daxten, and Aubrianna; his nephew, Christopher Bluga; his niece, Samantha Bluga; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and his stepson Jake Smith.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, July 29, 2026 from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. with a Funeral Service at 6:00 p.m. at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial contributions to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Donation Processing Center, PO Box 5041, Boone, IA 50950.