John P. Winkler

John P. Winkler, age 89, of Royal Oak, passed away August 7, 2023 at Waltonwood of Royal Oak. He was born December 18, 1933 in Detroit to the late Clarence and Lois Winkler.
After graduating from Denby High School, John was drafted into the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany for several years. He returned home to work for the Burroughs Corporation prior to starting his career at Detroit Edison. John initially worked as an appliance repairman but used his skills and ambition to work his way up the ranks to a field inspector. Early in his life, John honed his skills in plumbing, carpentry, mechanics, and electrical work, which afforded him the ability to complete any of his difficult home projects, as well as those of his friends'.
John met Rita, his wife of 55 years, while both worked at Detroit Edison. They married on August 27, 1960 and had 2 children together. John and Rita loved to travel and visited England, Italy, France, Poland, and Germany.
John had interesting opinions and a unique sense of humor, which he freely shared with anyone whom he came in contact with. Whether it was McDonald's, Big Boy, or any local restaurant, he and his friends would discuss important news and worldly affairs. He was full of life, always spoke from the heart, and was unapologetically authentic, which those close to him feel was his most endearing quality.
John was the beloved husband to his late wife, Rita (d. 3/20/2017); proud father to his son, Paul, and his late daughter, Emme (James Hering); cherished grandfather to Olivia and Owen Hering. He was preceded in death by his brother, Joseph, and sister, Lois Ann. He also leaves behind his close friend and nurse, Kyra Robinson, who showed great care, compassion and loyalty over the last few years of John's life.
John will be laid to rest at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Southfield, Michigan.