Rodney WINKLE Obituary
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Glenn Patton
October 29, 2019
I attended BGSU in the 70's with Rod. The industrial tech program was pretty small then so we found ourselves in many classes together. We usually managed to sit together and if group work was required we always made sure we were in the same group. We first met in a math class and always did our homework immediately after class in a study area. He was bright, easy going, fun to work with, and like myself enjoyed a good joke or prank. One of our favorite pass times was teasing and making fun of one another. One day I learned of a job opening for upcoming grads as an industrial trainer. Later that day I ran into Rod and gave him the job info. A short time later Rod contacted me and said not only had he interviewed for the job but had actually been offered the job. Not one to miss an opportunity to give him a hard time, I loved telling him I was responsible for launching his career. As often is the case after graduation we lost contact with each other. I often wondered how life had turned out for my friend and regret not seeking him out. I was saddened to just now learn of his passing though not surprised to see how successful he was and his very impressive list of service and accomplishments. My deepest sympathies go out to his family. Glenn Patton retired teacher and BGSU grad. Elk Rapids, Michigan
Peter Taylor
June 21, 2013
I just discovered your loss today. I send my very late condolences. Rod was a wonderful person whose opinions I valued. Our conversations were always inspiring and thought provoking. I felt badly that our paths had gone separate directions.
Dan Cohen
April 24, 2012
I just learned yesterday of the tragedy of Rod's passing last year and was shocked. I had the very good fortune to work with Rod on a variety of leadership development projects for more than six years. In that time, I learned a great deal from him about what it takes to build and sustain relationships, the importance of partnership and shared responsibility and about leadership itself. I was always impressed with Rod's ability and interest in developing the other people on his own team and across all of Cooper Tire. He is someone I always thought I would work with again in the future and stands out as one of the most valued business partners I have encountered in the course of my career. I will really miss him and send my deep condolences to his entire family.
Peter Cooksley
October 26, 2011
I was privileged and honoured to work with Rod at Cooper. Rod was my mentor and gave me great support when I set up the training department for Cooper in Europe. He always had an infectious smile and even after leaving Cooper we kept in touch on a regular basis. He was a great friend and I miss him very much. My love to Joan, Angie and Missy. x
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Michele Martinez
September 26, 2011
Angie,
Your UT family is here for you. Please share our condolences with your loved ones and please let me know if there is anything I can do for you.
Thinking of you during this sad time,
Michele Martinez, Dean of Students, University of Toledo
September 25, 2011
Rod Winkle touched more lives than he could ever have imagined. As a masterful public speaker and seminar leader he addressed thousands over the years. He had the unique ability to speak to large groups and somehow manage to make you feel like he was speaking directly with you. He could speak on a variety of topics including business, leadership and organizational development. No matter the subject he always managed to inspire you to be a better manager, a better leader, a better dad and a even a better friend. Whatever the topic he encouraged you make time to share with others and to make the world just a little better place. During his time on earth he didn't waste a minute but somehow managed to share his time with anybody who asked, no matter what you needed. He was unique and authentic in so many ways. We continue to lift up Rod's family in our prayers and celebrate the fact that we had him in our lives. We will carry on with what he shared with us so freely.
Greg Ring
Friend & Coworker
Bluffton, OH
Joe Flynn
September 23, 2011
I learned a lot from Rod at his "Cooper C.A.M.P." He taught me many different leadership styles, when I needed them the most. I called Rod a couple of times after that class for his opinions on "culture change" at our company and he had very good advice. My thoughts and prayers are with Rod's family. Joe Flynn-Flynn's Tire Group.
Marcus Marcero
September 23, 2011
Knowing and working with Rod over the past six years has helped me realize what leadership really means - for family, community and work. A true role model for others, his integrity, generousity, grace, and friendship will always be an example for those who were lucky enough to know him.
Marcus Marcero (Waterford, MI)
Amanda Backus
September 22, 2011
I am a better person for having met him and will miss his wonderful sense of humor. On behalf of my family, our thoughts are with the Winkle family.
September 21, 2011
Rod always made an entrance when coming into the Leipsic Eagles. He had a way of brightening up the room. All will miss his smiling face and great personality. So glad he, often, made time to come back to his home town, to see family & friends. Miss you Rod!
David Blackmer
September 21, 2011
Rod was a man of great integrity and vision. I am the better for knowing and working for him. My family's thoughts and prayers are with his.
Corene Scheumann
September 21, 2011
I had the joy of knowing Rod thru many Best-One Tire meetings that he help with. Words cannot express the amazing man he was! I always knew he was only an email away for an encouraging message! Rod will be missed - but will live forever in the heart of Best-One.
Esther Goebel
September 21, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Angie Feeback
September 21, 2011
I was shocked to hear the news and deeply saddened to hear of his passing. Our condolences go out to Mrs. Winkle, his mother, and Joan and your daughters, and Rod's brothers and sisters. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Christa
September 20, 2011
Sometimes it is hard to understand why God takes certain people from us......then you think about the role of a Guardian Angel and realize that the question shouldn't be "why?" but more like......"why did you wait so long?" The legacy that is apart of the Winkle family is that of caring, giving and always thinking of others first.
Lee Schmitt
September 20, 2011
I am shocked and saddened by the sudden and needless loss of Rod! While I was his high school principal we became great friends and I was proud to see his personal and professional accomplishments that followed in his life. My heartfelt sympathy to his Mom, JoAnne, his wife, Joan and their daughters, and to his siblings: Steve, Randy, Sandra, and Sue. My life and that of many others were enriched by his great personality and compassion... for that, I am grateful.
David Vaupel
September 20, 2011
We had the pleasure of meeting Rod a few years ago. My brother, Kenny and Rod came to see my son race close to Toledo. Dillon was about 9 years old at the time. Rod took the time to talk to Dillon and expressed a true interest in his racing. We also had the pleasure of talking to Rod again at Paige's graduation party. Rod always took time to talk to my family members. Rod was a true friend to my brother. He will truly be missed. We just wanted you to know that we are thinking of you and your family. We are keeping you all in our prayers. David, Mindy & Dillon Vaupel
Marie
September 20, 2011
I am deeply saddened by this. Unbelievable. Absolutely unbelievable.
Scott Simpson
September 20, 2011
My deepest sympathies for the passing of a great colleague and a wonderful friend. My life and the lives of my associates were definitely blessed by knowing and having a relationship with Rod. We will truly miss him. My thoughts and prayers go out to Rods family and friends.
Carrie Herr
September 20, 2011
My deepest sympathy and heartfelt prayers during this time of loss and sorrow.
David Arreguin
September 20, 2011
I graduated from Leipsic High School with Rod, and couldn't believe the news. I've thought of Rod many times thru the years, and remember him as a good friend. I am so very sorry for your loss.
David Arreguin
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