Kenneth James Winkler

Kenneth James Winkler, 77 passed away on April 4, 2019 at his home.  Memorial Services are scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Thursday, April 11, 2019 at St. Paul Lutheran Church at The Grove. Kenneth James Winkler was born on November 20, 1941 in Temple, Texas to his parents Jesse and Ruby (Schkade) Winkler.    Kenneth was baptized at St. Paul Lutheran Church, The Grove, November 30, 1941 with Pastor M.J. Scaer officiating.  He was confirmed at St. Paul Lutheran Church on April 3, 1955 by Pastor Eberhardt. Kenneth married Joyce Walenta in Austin, Texas on August 24, 1963.  Kenneth attended Sunday School at St. Paul Lutheran Church, as well as Christian Day School at St. Paul Lutheran School.  He then attended school in Temple graduating from Temple High School before going to work for the Sign Printing Division of the Texas Highway Department.  This is the job he held all his working career.  Before going to work for the Highway Department, Kenneth served a four year tour of duty with the United States Army.  He also enjoyed and was an avid supporter of the Texas Early Day Tractor and Engine Association.    He enjoyed almost anything there was to do outside. Farming was very near and dear to his heart as were the goats that he cared for and raised.  He loved boating and hunting with his family, as well as later on in Iife watching sports on television.   He was very close to his six year old granddaughter Baylee, always referring to her as “sweetheart”. Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and Ruby Winkler; by his brother-in-law Lester Gaskamp; and by his daughter-in-law Kelli Winkler. He is survived by his sister, Barbara Gaskamp; his sons, Wayne Winkler, Bruce Winkler, and Kevin and Misty Winkler; grandchildren, Baylee Winkler, Joe Downey, and Tonua Paradise; five great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; cousins and friends.