Edward Winter, age 92, Ret. Captain United States Navy, passed away on Monday, August 19, 2013, with his wife of 70 years, Nancy Jane Winter, by his side.
"Captain Ed" was born in Medicine Lake, Montana, on July 26, 1921, to Joseph and Sarah Winter, the 4th of 6 children.
While attending Carroll College in Helen, MT, on a football scholarship, Edward received his pilot's license in 1939. In May 1941, Edward joined the Naval Aviation cadet program and received his wings of gold. Captain Winter served over 31 years and in three wars. He loved to fly and he was qualified to fly numerous aircraft including fighter jets, heavy attack planes and seaplanes.
Edward served proudly during WWII and he flew numerous missions in the African/Mediterranean Theater between 1942 and 1945. He continued to serve with pride in the U.S. Navy for 31 years and did tours of duty in several posts including test project pilot in Bedford, MA; Flight Operations Officer in Bermuda; and Commander in Sanford, FL. Edward was stationed in Norfolk, VA, and later served in Pentagon. In 1965 he was assigned as Chief of Staff, Commander Fleet Wing Air Command, on Whidbey Island, WA. His final assignment, in 1970, was in San Diego and then he and Nancy retired to Poway, CA, in 1972. He served his country with honor, distinction and bravery.
Edward received numerous commendations and awards during his career. An excellent article was written on Captain Ed as the former Whidbey Fleet Air Commander in 8/12/11 Northwest Navigator by Tony Popp. Another article in the 6/27/11 Poway Patch highlighted Ed's career and his 90th birthday.
Edward met his wife Nancy in 1941 Jacksonville, FL, while training at the Pensacola Naval Air Station, Pensacola, FL. They were married on October 10, 1943, and spent their 70 years playing together, both on and off the golf course.
Ed will be dearly missed by his beloved wife, Nancy; his four children, Donna (Liz) of Madison, WI, Edward (LuAnn) of University Place, WA, Terrie (Mick) Kavran of Kenmore, WA, and Michael (Carmen) of Poway, CA. He was the proud grandfather to six grandchildren, Mick (Tina) Kavran, Kenny Kavran, Kelli (Jared) Lesse, Holly (Josh) Graff, Gretchen (Jeff) Nelson and Brian (Jenny) Winter; eight great-grandchildren (with 2 more on the way). Ed was a beloved uncle to his niece, Sara Jo (Tom) Grode and nephew, Edward (LaVonne) McCumber of St. Paul, MN; as well as many dear friends and extended family. Ed was preceded in death by his infant first son, Edward Joseph; his mother and father; sisters, Frances, Edythe, Evelyn; and brothers, Louis and Charles.
Captain Ed was a charter member of the Association of Naval Aviators and a Keepers Club member of the Zoological Society of San Diego for twenty years. He was a member of the Stoneridge Golf and Country Club for over thirty years and a member of the Disabled American Veterans.
Ed was an avid sportsman; he traveled extensively with his wife, Nan; and they loved their golf. He was sharp witted, a great conversationalist and host, and an excellent mechanic who helped friends and neighbors with their projects. He loved watching golf, soccer and football on TV. Ed cheered on many a team for his family including San Diego's own Chargers, Seattle's Seahawks, the Washington State Cougars, Green Bay Packers and UW Madison Badgers.
Ed was an expert on finances, cars and world events. He was first and foremost a pillar of strength to his family. He lived each day with gusto and guts and was truly and "old Salt". He taught his children to be self sufficient and loving and they will miss learning from him. He loved music from the 40's and 50's, loved Frank Sinatra, and yes, Dad, you did it "your way!" Thanks for always being there. We will miss you so much but we know you are up there flying high with the best of them.
Captain Ed's life will be celebrated on Monday, August 26, 2013, at 10:30am at Miramar National Cemetery. The family would like to thank all who helped our father during his illness, including all the staff at Remington, Mission Health and Elizabeth Hospice.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Elizabeth Hospice, 150 W. Crest St., Escondido, CA 92025.