Raymond "Ray" James Winkler

Raymond “Ray” James Winkler, age 94 was called home to God’s loving arms after completing his earthly journey on November 23,2023.

Ray was born in Chicago, Illinois on January 25, 1929 to Anthony and Frances Winkler. He was an only child, raised by his mother. He married the love of his life, Virginia “Gina” (Haupt) Winkler and they spent 69 inseparable years together until her passing in 2022. Ray was proud to serve in the U.S. Army, where he was stationed in Germany for the first 2 years of their marriage.

Ray was preceded in death by his wife Virginia in 2022 and first child Michael James. He is survived by his 4 children and their spouses: Diane & Bill Roersma, Donna & Jim Baker, Dan & Amy Winkler, and Doug & Pam Winkler. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Ray was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, and believed in living life to the fullest. He enjoyed playing piano and the organ; it was a source of joy to share his music with others. He acquired a love for the game of baseball from his Uncle George “Bingo” Binks and loved to share his stories about adventures they had together in his early years. Playing and umpiring softball were a big part of his life for many years, and when he was no longer able to play, he had the opportunity to work the Spring Training games in Florida. He and Gina travelled to all 50 of the United States together and took many memorable cruises. 

In 2018, Ray and Gina moved into the Moosehaven Community and were very active and happy there. The staff would often comment about needing to catch them early in the morning because they’d be off for the day, all over campus, staying busy. The family is very appreciative of the loving care provided by the Moosehaven staff; especially in the Memory Care Unit (Kathryn Smith Building) over the past year. Ray was always treated with dignity, respect, kindness and understanding by everyone that worked with him. We would also like to thank Community Hospice for their support and assistance during Ray’s last days as well.

A Mass of Celebration will take place on Monday, December 4, 2023 at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church in Orange Park, Florida at 11:00am. An opportunity for visitation prior to the service will be available at 10:00am.    

In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to your favorite charity.