Gene Winfield, an iconic figure in the world of custom car creation, passed away at the age of 97. Renowned as "The King of Kustoms," Winfield left an indelible mark on the automotive and entertainment industries through his innovative designs for films and television shows. His creations, ranging from futuristic vehicles to iconic gadgets, have become symbols of creativity and craftsmanship. Throughout his career, Winfield contributed to numerous productions, including Blade Runner, Star Trek, RoboCop, and Batman. His work not only earned him acclaim within the hot-rod community but also secured his place in multiple halls of fame.

Born in Springfield, Missouri, in 1927, Gene Winfield moved to Modesto, California, during his early years. By the tender age of 10, he had already begun working on cars, igniting a lifelong passion that would lead him into auto racing and custom building by the early 1950s. After serving in the Army, Winfield's talent flourished, and he quickly became known for his exceptional custom paint jobs. His creations were featured in several notable projects, such as the Galileo shuttlecraft for Star Trek and the "spinners" in Blade Runner, which received an Oscar nomination for Special Effects. The versatile designer also crafted vehicles for Back to the Future II, The Last Starfighter, and Woody Allen’s Sleeper, among others.

Winfield's influence extended beyond Hollywood, as he collaborated with Detroit automakers and won numerous awards within the hot-rod community. His dedication to the craft was recognized with prestigious honors, including the National Hot Rod Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award. In addition to his practical work, Winfield's legacy was immortalized in a DVD series titled "The King of Kustoms" and a book by David Grant, chronicling his legendary custom cars and hot rods.

In his later years, Winfield continued to be celebrated for his contributions to both the automotive and entertainment worlds. His passing marks the end of an era, yet his creations will continue to inspire future generations of designers and enthusiasts. The impact of his innovative spirit and unparalleled skill will undoubtedly endure in the annals of automotive history and popular culture.