The death of Gene Winfield (June 16, 1927-March 4, 2025), a true icon in the world of hot rodding, marks a day of great significance. Gene embodied the spirit of hot rodding like no one else. While his heart belonged to custom cars, his passion for racing at the Dry Lakes and Bonneville was a strong second. For those who experienced Gene “after hours,” he had a deep love for dancing. He never turned down a good party and always enjoyed himself with his fellow hot rodders.
But beyond his remarkable contributions to automotive culture, Gene was a beloved friend. He had a unique way of connecting with everyone he encountered, always sharing a smile, offering a handshake, and forging new friendships at every event he attended. His life was filled with achievements and good deeds, but his friendship truly stood out to me. Talking with Gene felt like receiving a priceless gift—a living history that no book or article could ever express. He was sincere and approachable, a genuine extrovert who thrived on the camaraderie of fellow hot rodders. As a founding member and the first president of the Modesto Century Toppers Auto Club, his dedication to the community was evident.
I first encountered Gene over 50 years ago in his shop, where he worked skillfully on sheetmetal for a top chop. By then, he was already a respected figure in the automotive world, having made a name for himself through regular participation in prestigious events, like the Grand National Roadster Show and the Detroit Autorama, where crowds gathered to admire his impressive work. He was an accomplished land speed racer and a masterful metalworker, known for his creativity and craftsmanship.
Gene was also a talented photographer, a necessity for young builders and customizers at the time, especially since Southern California dominated the magazine scene. He would capture intriguing modifications, using them to inspire his builds. His journey began with his brother Frank’s 1941 Plymouth transformation, where he chopped the roof and windshield by 3 inches. It wasn’t long before his skills garnered respect from peers, and word of his talent spread across the country. His shop flourished, focusing on essential suspension work and minor customizations, with his early projects, like Alvin Serpa’s 1946 Ford convertible, receiving high acclaim.
In 1946, Gene joined forces with fellow hot rodders to establish the Modesto Century Toppers Auto Club, assuming the role of president. As his custom shop thrived, he sold his beloved 1931 Ford roadster to create a 1927 Ford roadster, inspired by the debut of Hot Rod magazine. His first complete build debuted at the inaugural National Roadster Show in Oakland, California, where he connected with other aspiring customizers like Harry Westergard.
Gene’s influence spread even further as the hot-rodding movement surged in the 1960s. He contributed to car magazines, developed AMT model kits, and caught the attention of Hollywood. From building the iconic 1965 Sunbeam Tiger for Get Smart to creating The Reactor from Bewitched and various projects for Star Trek, Gene’s footprint on the industry was indelible.
Gene was more than a builder; he was a pioneer, a mentor, and a loyal friend to many. His spirit will live on in the hearts of those he inspired and the countless lives he touched through his passion for automobiles and the joy of building. As we remember this extraordinary man, let us celebrate his remarkable achievements and the kindness and camaraderie he shared with us all.
For anyone who never had the chance to sit down at an airport with Gene while waiting for flights and enjoying those incredible one-on-one conversations about the early days and what Gene predicted would come, those were the days for me. I will miss Gene greatly, especially watching him on the dance floor at 95 years old! MR
