Edward William Wintergalen

Edward (Ed) William Wintergalen passed away peacefully at home on June 5, 2025, at the age of 88.

Born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, he attended St. Louis University High School and later St. Louis University. Upon graduating with an industrial engineering degree, he began his career with American Air Filter - a role that took him across the country and helped shape the course of his life.

While working in Denver, Colorado, Ed met Barbara, the love of his life. They began their journey together in a cozy "garden" apartment - more accurately, a basement apartment - where they started their family. All five of their children were born in Denver during those early years.

A transfer with American Air Filter took the family to Des Moines, Iowa, followed by another move to Saratoga, California. A new job with Climatec, brought them to Phoenix, Arizona, in 1978 where they made their home for the rest of Ed’s life.

A man of deep and abiding faith, Ed was a devoted Catholic and an active member of the Franciscan Renewal Center and Our Lady of the Angels Church. He and Barbara generously gave their time and resources, serving through the Center’s various charities and ministries. They were also involved with Valley Interfaith, working on behalf of the marginalized. Ed’s advocacy reflected his belief in justice, dignity, and the strength of community.

Known for his sharp wit, extraordinary memory, and unwavering consistency - he never missed a detail and was the one everyone relied on to keep things running smoothly. Ed had a passion for photography and served as the family historian, meticulously documenting every occasion and capturing countless cherished moments. He leaves behind a rich visual legacy that will be treasured for generations.

Ed is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Barbara, and their five children: Anne; Barney (Noreen); Edward (Polly); Joseph Wintergalen; and Kathryn Westlake (Michael). Ed was a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren: Eddie, Patrick, Sadie, Charlie, and Will Wintergalen; Sarah, David, and Matthew Westlake. He is also survived by his brother, Ben Wintergalen (Patricia). He was preceded in death by his brother, George Wintergalen.

A Visitation will be held at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ on Tuesday, June 10th, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM with a Rosary at 7:00 P.M.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, June 11th, at Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church, 5802 E. Lincoln Drive, Scottsdale, AZ 85253 at 10:30 AM. A reception will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made in Ed’s memory to the Franciscan Renewal Center.