R.I.P. Gene

[Jeff Kleiner]

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=211133&d=1741135325

https://www.autoweek.com/news/a64040173/gene-winfield-custom-car-icon-obituary/

Although it's been apparent that this was coming over the past few weeks it's still a tough one to take. I was actually able to meet and talk with Gene 10-12 years ago when I was one of the first through the door at a World of Wheels show where he was conducting one of his clinics. He was all alone in his area setting up for the day and we had a good 15 minutes or so together just talking one on one. A truly humble, gifted and great guy. Not long ago Dave Smith and I were sharing a few adult beverages and I told him that my goal as I approach 68 years of age is to be like Gene Winfield, still doing our car thing every day at 90+ years old.

Rest in Peace Gene.

Jeff

211133

[65 Cobra Dude]

He was a pioneer in this field and inspiring to be like him is a noble goal. RIP Gene!

Respectfully,

Henry

[danmas]

Thanks for sharing this Jeff. It sounds like he was a hell of a guy and artist.

[Etraugott]

Was lucky enough to attend one of his metal shaping classes. He was in his late 80s at the time and never slowed down. Very knowledgeable guy.

[DW66]

Well said Jeff. A huge loss to the Hot Rod community. I've followed him for years.

Dave

[jrcuz]

Indeed, a huge loss. Rest In Peace, Gene.
Jerry

[ggunter]

What a gifted man. I have followed Gene since the sixties and always marveled at that man's abilities. It didn't seem like there wasn't anything he couldn't do with a piece of metal. He was so gifted to be able to work well into his late years. He is another one of the dwindling talents in our hobby who's expertise will not be replaced.

[CraigS]

Some of our favorite episodes of Full Custom Garage were when Ian visited Gene Whitfield.

[Mike.Bray]

I bet he lowered the lids on more Mercs than anyone. What a talent.

[Valkster]

I've enjoyed watching him on several car episodes of various "build it/restoration" shows over the years. Very talented and knowledgeable, and always glad to pass along the knowledge.

[J R Jones]

Hemmings tribute and projects review:
https://www.hemmings.com/stories/a-look-back-at-gene-winfields-most-legendary-custom-cars/?uemlid=e29ae41c30a8cc7bc5bc56d7629c05ef62ac2b68b5 5398394c1d2202d76379a9&utm_content=other&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=EDaily%20Recurring%202025-03-06&utm_term=eDaily%20Newsletter

jim

[Infinitybox]

God Bless and Rest in Peace Gene.

[Derald Rice]

https://www.hagerty.com/media/people/1927-2025-gene-winfield-built-and-raced-his-automotive-dreams/

[Mick40]

They forgot the Batmobile too

[Jeff Kleiner]

They forgot the Batmobile too

Batmobile was George Barris, not Gene Winfield.

Jeff