Allen Wayne Schwinkendorf

Allen Wayne Schwinkendorf, 61, passed away peacefully July 21, 2025.

His bemused smile and helpful nature will be deeply missed by his many friends and family, including his children Connor (Emily) Schwinkendorf, and Leah Schwinkendorf; parents Jim and Carolyn Schwinkendorf; significant other Suzanne Shippy; siblings David (Tina) Schwinkendorf, and Mary Ann (John) Kempa; nephews Brian (Carley) Kempa, James Kempa, Jack Schwinkendorf, and Luke Schwinkendorf; godparents Phyllis and Ray Ebersole; aunts Susan Bork, and Becky Poland; former wife and mother of his children Kathy Williams; and long-time business partner Bob Verburg.

Allen was born March 9, 1964, in Adrian, Michigan, and moved with his family to Grand Rapids in 1967. He attended Forest Hills schools, graduated from Northern High School in 1982, and studied automotive technology at Ferris State University.

His affinity for cars was evident at a young age, moving as he grew from his favorite Matchbox and Tonka vehicles, to the project cars that took over the family garage, and ultimately to his employment at Verburg’s Automotive. He began work at the shop as a high school student, and continued as a full-time employee and eventual owner during his 40-plus years with the business.

For 24 years each Saturday morning Allen shared his automotive expertise on WOOD radio’s Auto Talk show beginning with co-host Pat O’Neill and later with Shaun O’Neill and John Puhek.  They built a loyal following, not just of mechanics and car enthusiasts, but also of average car owners who appreciated learning more about their cars and how they worked in a format mixed with humor, music, and observations on life. After the radio show ended in early 2019, Allen and his broadcasting partners continued their popular conversations online in 99 episodes of Michigan’s Auto Talk, billed as “a podcast for car lovers hosted by guys who work on cars.”

Allen also enjoyed sharing his knowledge and experience with the automotive technology students at Kent Career Tech Center, where he served as an advisor and helped administer certification tests.

Allen generously used his mechanical skills to help others, whether family member, friend, customer, or stranger. He was an engaged and caring uncle, taking great interest in his nephews’ lives. Above all, he cherished his role as Connor and Leah’s father. He loved them deeply and took great pride in their accomplishments.

To honor Allen’s spirit, look for opportunities to learn something new, ask someone how they are and really listen to their reply, find humor in whatever life presents, and share your time and talents to make someone’s day a little easier.

Visitation will be held beginning at 10 a.m. Wed. July 30, at Ada Bible Church, East Paris campus, 1640 East Paris Ave., Grand Rapids, MI 49546. A memorial service will begin at 11 a.m. followed by a luncheon.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Allen Schwinkendorf Memorial Scholarship found on Bold.org, or by contacting the family for further information.