Donald C. Winkle

Donald C. Winkle, age 65, passed away on December 21, 2021. Don was born on April 30, 1956 in Dayton, Ohio.  He graduated from Vandalia-Butler and lived in Vandalia most of his life until he retired and moved to St. Mary’s, Ohio.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Jean and Vern Winkle, Paul Hoover, grandparents Emery and Marie Hoover and wife of 20 years, Pauline (Griffith) Winkle.

Don is survived by his wife of the past 19 years, Terri R. (Smith) Winkle; two children, Ashlee Winkle and Nicholas (Emily) Winkle; two step-sons, Hugh (Shanna)Dobbins, and Aaron Dobbins; four siblings, Dan, Millie, Jeanie & Bernie; nine grandchildren, Hannah and Vannessa Thompson, Kaylee, Sophia and Cameron Winkle, Gina, Chloe, Kaylee and Troy Dobbins; and by the Hoover family – who were like brothers & sisters to Don.

Don retired from Kroger, with over 30 years of service.  During his employment at Kroger in Vandalia, Ohio he served as a Union Steward. He will be remembered for his work ethnic and friendliness. After retirement, Don worked for Versa Pac in Celina,Ohio.

In 2019, he and Terri brought their dream home at Lake St. Mary’s, where he loved to fish and boat around the lake. Don loved animals and passed his love of pets to his kids. He loved to feed and watch the birds and ducks outside their home.  He especially loved having family visit and teaching the grandkids how to fish.  Don’s perfect day at the lake was fishing, kayaking and being with friends & family. He had a love of music, and enjoyed playing and collecting guitars.  He was quite a jokester and always had a funny joke or story.  Don will be remembered by his grandchildren for being silly, making the best PB&J sandwiches, and his famous chicken nuggets.

A celebration of life will be held from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Monday, January 3, 2022 at Morton & Whetstone Funeral Home, 139 S. Dixie Dr., Vandalia. Memorial services will follow at 3:00 p.m. with Don’s good friend, Minister Kenny Dietz, officiating.