Charles Lewis Winterhalter

It is with heavy hearts and fond memories that we announce the passing of Charles L. Winterhalter, aged 94, affectionately known as "Lefty", to his friends. Charles was known for his easy-going nature, his delightful sense of humor, and his unwavering loyalty. He cherished his relationship with his two younger brothers, his lifelong friendships, and was deeply devoted to his beloved wife, Sylvia Winterhalter (nee Kohstall) who preceded him in death in 2013. 

Raised in Hyde Park, Charles was a proud graduate of Withrow High School and a dedicated alumnus, running his class reunions to keep his classmates together for many decades. He also rescued and restored the bass drum displayed in the Withrow museum gallery, a testament to his enduring devotion to the school.

Charles earned the nickname "Lefty" due to his left-handed prowess in sports. Even after contracting polio at the age of 20, Charles remained active, continuing to play softball, tennis, golf, and swimming or walking a mile daily.

He earned his bachelor's and master’s degree in business from the University of Cincinnati (UC) and enjoyed a 48-year career as a professor at UC. He served three terms as President of the UC Faculty Club, was a member of the McMicken Society, and was selected to join UC’s honorary fraternity Sigma Sigma. A passionate supporter of Bearcats athletics, he was a member of UCats, the University’s Athletic Committee, and held UC football and basketball season tickets for over 50 years. Charles was committed in his support and what he gave financially he gave ten fold of his time.

In addition to teaching, Charles was a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with his own practice and served as President of the Public Accountants Society of Ohio. His diverse career also included work at Hamilton County Clerk of Courts and the Internal Revenue Service.

Charles will be remembered by his custom scent made by his cherry and Captain Black’s tobacco blend and for his prolific sense of humor. He could make adults laugh with witty one-liners and delighted his grandchildren by transforming napkins into bunnies that hopped. He also possessed an encyclopedic memory, recalling sports statistics, reciting the Gettysburg Address, listing Cincinnati’s zip codes, and naming all the U.S. Presidents.

Charles had "gangs" of friends from all stages of his life, each group with its own affectionate nickname for him. His Over-the-Hill gang met at College Hill’s, Bacall’s restaurant, for over 20 years. He was always making new friends, and no one remained a mere acquaintance. 

Charles is survived by his children: Jennifer (Russell), McMahon, Ralph (Andrea) Winterhalter, Cynthia Speight, and Laura Winterhalter; six grandchildren Spencer (Natsu) McMahon, Brian (AnnElizabeth) McMahon, Jackie (Jesse) Storm, Molly (Matthew) Fuller, and Jack Speight; and five great-grandchildren. As well as his two sister-in-laws, Anne Kohstall and Patricia Winterhalter, and numerous nephews and nieces. His grandson, Charlie Winterhalter, predeceased him in death in 2016, as well as his brothers Jim in 2014, and Alan in 2002.

 

Charles leaves behind a wonderful legacy and extensive pipe collection. He believed life's priorities should be faith, health, family, and work, in that order. He had an uncanny ability to maintain a good sense of humor despite difficult circumstances, such as playing practical jokes on hospital staff when bedridden with polio. He was known for being straightforward and offering his wisdom and advice to others with kindness and love. 

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the March of Dimes, PO Box 3155, Harlan, IA 51593-0346, the Rotary Club, 14280 Collections Center Drive, Chicago, IL, 60693 or UC's Sigma Sigma at The University of Cincinnati Foundation, P.O. Box 19970, Cincinnati, OH, 45219 in honor of Charles Winterhalter. 

With heartfelt sympathy,

 The Winterhalter Family