Gary A. Winkler

Gary A. Winkler
1951 - 2014
Springfield
Gary A. Winkler, 62 of Springfield died Wednesday, March 12, 2014. Gary was born in Springfield, a son of the late Richard and Janet (Hoffman) Winkler. He received his undergraduate degree from UMASS Amherst and his MSW from Boston University. He lived and worked in Boston for many years, having worked at Charles River Hospital as well as other mental health care facilities. After returning to Springfield, he spent several years working with troubled children and teens at Brightside. Gary was socially conscious and involved in several community efforts in support of the poor and homeless in Springfield. He was a very kind and compassionate person, always willing to help someone else, regardless of his own circumstances at the time. He was very proud of the fact that he not only attended Woodstock, but he was one of those who had actually purchased tickets. Gary enjoyed spending time with his nieces and nephews, watching movies and playing video games. Gary is survived by his brother Donald Winkler and his wife Angela of Springfield, his sister Elaine Levesque and her husband Edward of Agawam, and several nieces and nephews. Family and friends are invited to Sampson's Chapel of the Acres Funeral Home, 21 Tinkham Rd, Springfield for a period of visitation on Wednesday March 19,2014 from 3-5pm . A Service of Remembrance will follow Wed 5pm at the funeral Home. In lieu of flowers donations in Gary's memory may be sent to a charity of the donor's choice.