Amy Sue Winkowski

Amy Sue Winkowski (Smith), a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, left this world on September 7, 2024, in McHenry, Illinois. Born on July 29, 1959,
Amy's 65 years were filled with joy, love, and unforgettable memories that will live on in the hearts of everyone she touched.
Amy was a woman who lit up every room she walked into. She leaves behind her loving husband of 31 years, John Winkowski, and their five children: Marcus Smith, Cassie Smith, Kimberly Garcia, Tanya Perez, and Rick Winkowski. Her nine grandchildren were the light of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Amy was also a devoted sister to five surviving siblings, and her wide circle of friends knew her as a social butterfly who never missed a chance to laugh or share a story.
Preceded in death by her parents and two siblings, Amy's life was defined by her boundless love for her family. She took every opportunity to create special memories-whether it was a holiday gathering, a road trip, or simply a day spent relaxing by the pool with her loved ones.
Amy had an undeniable passion for adventure. She traveled to her favorite places like Aruba, Disney World, Nashville, and Las Vegas, where she often walked away from the slot machines with a grin and a little extra in her pocket. Her family vacations were filled with laughter, stories, and the occasional mischief-just the way she liked it. At home, she loved her weekends in Wisconsin Dells, where shopping and family time were always on the agenda.
Her 21-year career at Jewel brought her a second family, as she formed deep connections with her coworkers and customers alike. Amy's friendly smile and genuine interest in others turned casual interactions into lifelong friendships. She made everyone she met feel special.
Amy's love for country music ran deep, with the sounds of Hank Williams Jr., George Jones, Loretta Lynn, and Eric Church filling her home. These songs will always remind her family of the happy moments they shared with her, whether it was cooking for the holidays or enjoying a summer day together.
Amy had a way of making the simple things in life extraordinary. She loved hosting family gatherings, where her delicious meals were matched only by the laughter and stories she loved to tell. Her holiday feasts were legendary, and the reunions at Lake Geneva, a cherished tradition started by her mother, were events her family will never forget.
Known for her sass, wit, and unshakable love, Amy was the heart of her family. She embraced life fully, and her spirit will continue to shine through her children, grandchildren, and everyone who was lucky enough to know her.
Amy's family will honor her by completing the trip to Gatlinburg they had planned with her, bringing her cremated remains along so she can still be part of the adventure-just as she would have wanted.
A gathering to celebrate Amy's vibrant life will take place on Friday, September 13, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Justen Funeral Home & Crematory, 3700 Charles J Miller Road, McHenry, IL. A Life Celebration Service will begin at 7:00 p.m., where family and friends will share memories and laughter as they honor a life lived to the fullest.
For information please call the Funeral Home at 815-385-2400, or visit www.justenfh.com, where friends and loved ones may share memories of Amy on her tribute wall.
Amy leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and family that will forever be remembered. Though she may be gone, her spirit continues to bring joy to all those she held close.
"She may be on her next great adventure, but she'll always be right here-smiling, laughing, and loving in the hearts of those who knew her best."