Eugene (Gene) William Schwister of Sussex, age 86, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 26, 2026, surrounded by his family due to colon cancer.

Beloved husband of Beverlyann Schwister (née Matousek) and the late Rita Kraft. Loving father of Sandy (Kevin) Polaski. Proud grandfather of Tyler (Mara) and Tanner (Taylar), and great-grandfather of Ford Polaski. Dear brother of William Schwister, Marlene Schnittka, and the late Lois Steger. Gene is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends.

Gene was an Army Veteran, proud co-owner of the family business, Schwister Ford, and a well-known, respected figure in the local automotive community. Growing up in the car business, many will remember the neon-outlined Model T Ford perched atop a column in the city’s far northwest corner, and later in Menomonee Falls.

Gene had a lifelong passion for hot rods and racing. He was a proud member of the Losers Car Club and participated in numerous car shows, earning many awards. His prized possession, a 1955 Ford, brought him one of his proudest moments when he won Best of Show at the 2015 Car Craft Summer Nationals in Milwaukee. He cherished traveling across the country with his grandson Tyler, sharing their love of cars. In recent years, he could often be seen locally cruising in his light blue and white 1957 Ranchero.

One of his final trips was to the National Street Rod Association car show in Davenport Iowa, where he spent meaningful time with Tanner, Tyler, Mara, Taylar, and especially his great-grandson, Ford—introducing him to the world of hot rods.

Racing was in Gene’s blood. He never missed a NASCAR race and loved spending time at Slinger Speedway. You could always find him on turn four or in the pits, close to the action. In 2012, Gene was inducted into the Southeastern WI Short Track Hall of Fame.

Gene also treasured time spent in Winter, Wisconsin, where he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling, creating countless memories with family and friends. He was known for his ever-present smile and his love of sneaking in an ice cream whenever he could.

Gene lived a full and meaningful life and played a significant role in Sandy’s life and her family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. There won’t be a local car show that doesn’t bring thoughts of Gene.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the team at Angel’s Grace Hospice for their exceptional care and compassion during this difficult time.

Funeral services will take place on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Schmidt & Bartelt Funeral Home in Sussex. Visitation will be from 1:00 PM until 3:45 PM, with the service to follow at 4:00 PM. A private family burial will take place at St. Anthony’s Cemetery in Menomonee Falls.

A celebration of life will be held later this year.

If desired, memorials are appreciated to the American Diabetes Association, 2323 N. Mayfair Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, or online at diabetes.org.