Steven Glenn Winkler (Steve, Wink, Tt), age 63, passed away May 24, 2021 surrounded by his family, after a hard-fought, short battle with cancer. Steve was born on October 5, 1957 to Robert and Joyce Winkler in Ann Arbor, MI. Steve had lived in the Ann Arbor/Whitmore Lake area most of his life. He worked with his father for 25 years as a laborer and operator at Winkler Drainage. Steve owned and operated Winkler Excavating for 20 years, working alongside his son, Robert. He was an expert in his field, placing many specialized septic systems, basements, driveways, and clearing many farmers’ fields in the Washtenaw County area. Steve was an honest, hard-working man; a person you could trust to do a good job.
He was a loving husband and best friend to his wife, Carolyn Jean Ehnis Winkler, for 32 years, and she survives. He is also survived by his son, Michael Glenn Winkler (Danielle) of Whitmore Lake, MI, grandchildren Payton Elizabeth, Jackson Glenn, and Madison Rose; son, Robert Glenn Winkler (Nicole) of Grass Lake, MI, grandchildren Lucas Glenn and Haley Marie; sisters, Margie Ann Cotton (Randy) of Versailles, KY, Amy Sue Richardson (Robert) of South Lyon, MI; uncle, John Finkbeiner of South Lyon, MI, and many other family members, great friends, and most of all his FUR baby, Bella Mae. He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, Harold and Sarah Winkler and George and Edna Finkbeiner, and dear friend of 50 years, Gail Mullreed.
Steve retired in 2019, moving to his dream home and building his pole barn in Mancelona, MI. He loved northern Michigan with all the beautiful lakes, trails, and peaceful beauty. He was a Harley rider, ATV and 4-Wheeler rider on the Hatfield-McCoy Trails in West Virginia. He snowmobiled many Michigan and Canada snowmobile trails with his sons, wife, and good friends. He enjoyed ice fishing, boating, and fishing with his sons, family, and grandchildren. He treasured the times he spent with his grandchildren.
In accordance with his wishes, Steve has been cremated. A gathering of friends and family is scheduled for Sunday, June 6, 2021 from 11-1 at the American Legion in Dexter with a time of sharing and reflection beginning at 12:30 p.m., Chaplain Kristy Stuart officiating. Those wishing to make a memorial contribution in Steve’s name may do so to the American Cancer Society with special attention to Lung Cancer research. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.
