Joseph Romaine Winkler

Joseph "Joe" Romaine Winkler passed away on Friday, November 17, 2023, at his residence at the age of 75. A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM on Sunday, November 26, 2023, at Iten Funeral Home with visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will take place at a later time at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls.

Joseph R. Winkler was born on November 26, 1947, to Leonard and Lorraine (Jarosch) Winkler in Long Prairie, MN. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Browerville, MN. Joe graduated from Browerville High School in 1966 and then enlisted in the Army National Guard that same year. He continued to serve his country until June 1, 1972, when he was honorably discharged. Joe worked in Long Prairie as the Chief of Police until 1980. He finished his working career as a truck driver for Rene Hatton Trucking where he worked for 32 years before retiring. On September 9, 1967, Joe married Corrine Rostock in Long Prairie. To this union, three children were born: Karen, Kenneth, and Kevin. He taught his children how to hunt, fish, and make venison sausage, from the deer they hunted during their annual hunting trip up north of Leader, MN.  Joe, Corrine, and the kids took trips to Indiana, and Missouri to visit other relatives.

Whether it was a day trip sightseeing in Duluth, Inspiration Peak or a full camping trip to various attractions or parks in the state, Joe loved to include family. The annual trip to the Rapid River Logging Camp in Park Rapids, were always a family favorite that all five generations took part in. These trips, no matter how big or small made memories to last a lifetime.

In 1985, Joe gained the title of grandpa. He was a doting grandfather and had a special bond with his first grandson, Christopher.  In 1988, Joe began getting to know Cheryl Cuchna and not long after they were sharing their life together. The couple enjoyed garage sales, taking Sunday drives around the lakes, going out to supper and sitting outside during the summer at their home enjoying each other’s company and  nature.

When Joe wasn’t hunting or fishing, he could be found playing solitaire or bringing his Amish neighbors and friends to wherever they needed to go. He always had Faith in the Lord, was outspoken, strong-willed, and a proud Republican. Joe made an impression on those he met, and he will not be forgotten.

Joe is survived by his children, Karen, Kenneth, and Kevin Winkler: life partner, Cheryl Cuchna and her children, Bob, Karen, Joe, and their families; brothers, Bob (Carol) Winkler, Romaine Winkler, and Gary (Cindy) Winkler; sisters, Eleanor Leonard, Pat (Steve) Petrie, Debby (Paul) Thelen and Linda Winkler; grandchildren, Christopher (Holli), Kathrine, Derek, Dylan, Kila, Ashley, Addison, and Brielle; and great-grandchildren, Travis, Evanora, Cheyenne, and Clayton; and god-daughter, Christina Kohn. He is preceded in death by his parents; sister-in-law, Marianne Winkler; and nephew, Jeff Winkler.

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