David P. Winnen

David Paul Winnen, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2025 in Willows Landing in Monticello, MN. Born to Paul and Lula (Welch) Winnen, David grew up on the family farm in Plymouth, Minnesota, as the youngest of four siblings. With his siblings significantly older: 19, 17, and 14 at the time of his birth David often found himself the only child at home, forging cherished bonds with cousins like Marvin and nieces and nephews, including Pat and Doug.

A proud graduate of Wayzata High School, David went on to serve honorably in the United States Marine Corps. While in the military, David began a heartfelt correspondence with Geraldine "Gerri" Sweeney,whose hearing impairment made letter-writing a cornerstone of their relationship. Through these letters, they built a strong foundation of love and trust. Gerri expressed concerns about her ability to be a wife and mother due to her hearing loss, but David's steadfast reassurance that she would learn to "hear their children as they learned to speak" convinced her that she could be a wonderful mother. The couple married on October 25, 1957 and shared a 64½-year marriage anchored by deep faith in Christ, mutual devotion to each other, and a commitment to helping those in need. They were a beacon of support, often arriving in moments of need as if answering unspoken prayers.

David and Gerri raised four children: Kimberly, Mark, Lorrie and Dawn. They expanded their family by welcoming Caryn. David often referred to her as "the adopted one." Dave instilled a sense of responsibility to his children, as he included them in a variety of work projects. They helped him remove trees and stack wood, then keep the basement stocked with firewood for heating the house. He designed a wood splitter to aid in this process. The family enjoyed many camping trips together where they made memories tubing down the river, collecting shells and sitting around the campfire. Dave helped his children and several people learn how to work with tools. He was known to guide this learning process through trial and error. His children always knew that he was always just one phone call away and would lend support in times of need.

A jack-of-all-trades, David was known for his willingness to help, whether it was snow blowing driveways for the neighbors or sharing his skills as a handyman. His career reflected his strong work ethic, from helping construct highways in the Minneapolis area during the 1960s to his 28-year tenure with the City of Minnetrista, where he earned the affectionate nickname "The Grader With The Grin" for his infectious smile and positive spirit. David took pride in his family's legacy, often sharing stories and photos of his grandfather's carvings, including the iconic footbridge at Minnehaha Falls.

In 1967, David and Gerri settled in Minnetrista, where they built a life filled with family and community. In later years, they moved to St. James, Minnesota, to be closer to their younger grandchildren. David embraced his role as a devoted grandfather, constructing theater props, assisting with school projects, and cheering at countless activities. An avid golfer, he formed lasting friendships on the fairways and celebrated a proud hole-in-one at the St. James Golf Course on July 4, 2011.

In 2015, David and Gerri relocated to Big Lake, Minnesota, to remain near their growing family, which now included great-grandchildren. Even as he became Gerri's caregiver in her final years, David's love for her never wavered. After Gerri's passing on April 18, 2022, he continued to spread joy with his charm and boyish grin, touching the lives of all who knew him. His legacy is one of kindness, faith, and an unwavering commitment to family and community.

David is survived by his children: Kimberly (Jeff Peasley) Winnen of Plymouth, MN; Mark (Sandi) Winnen of St. Michael, MN; Lorrie (Chris) Evans of New Hope, MN; Dawn (Steve) Witcraft of St. James, MN; and Caryn (Joe) Schmit of Rogers, MN; 13 grandchildren, 13 great- grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law Shirley Hendricks, Pat (Marv) Meredith, and Kitty (Chan) Webber; lifelong friends Denny and Lola Johns; former Son-In-Law, Thomas Kickhafer, and many nieces,nephews, and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Geraldine; his parents, Paul and Lula Winnen; and his siblings, Victor (Josephine) Winnen, Harold (Bess) Winnen, and Violet (Ward) Garland. David's life was a testament to love, service, and the power of a smile. He will be deeply missed, but forever remembered by all whose lives he touched.

Visitation June 16th, 5-7 pm at Rettinger Funeral Home, Long Lake. Memorial Service 11:00 AM June 17th with visitation 1 hour prior to service at Messiah United Methodist Church - Plymouth MN, Luncheon to follow service.