Alva and Eleanor WINDLER

1935 - 2025

The Windler Family holds in special loving remembrance our father, Alva L. Windler (August 1935 - April 2025), and our mother, Eleanor Windler (August 1932 - March 2021).

They were both completely devoted to their family and God.

Eleanor (Ellie, Mom, Grandma) was born and raised in Spokane, WA, by her parents, Thomas and Helen (Olson) Miles, alongside her siblings: Thomas Miles, Patricia Hendricks and Elizabeth (Betty) Miles (all of whom predeceased Eleanor). She loved taking care of her kids and her home, baking cookies and cakes, holiday decorations, sewing, and walks through Manito Park.

Alva (Al, Sonny, Dad, Pappy, Grandpa) was born and raised in Paola, KS, by his parents, Alva E. and Mary F. (Moews) Windler along with his siblings: Beverly Hoyer (living) and brothers, Gene and Dale Windler (both deceased). This farm boy graduated from Paola High School - Class of 1953. He was a journeyman electrician who spent most of his career as a building inspector for the City of Spokane. Among other things, he enjoyed tinkering on autos, talking on his HAM Radios, and blacksmithing. In retirement, he taught mechanics at a vocational school. He also enjoyed helping friends and neighbors.

They met while Al was stationed at Fairchild Air Force Base, and they married in Spokane in February 1956. They spent most of their lives on the South Hill in Spokane, where they raised their beloved five children in the Lutheran Faith. On summer weekends, they enjoyed taking their kids camping among the trees in what Al called, "God's Cathedral." Later, they joined the Oregon Trail Travelers to demonstrate the pioneer days. They were also great parents-in-law, warmly accepting the spouses of each of their children (and later, grandchildren) into the Windler family.

Over the years, Al and Eleanor became Grandma, Grandpa and Great-Grandparents to their beloved grandkids and great-grandkids. Alva was the beloved patriarch, and Eleanor the beloved matriarch of the Spokane Windler wing of our families. We loved them dearly as they loved us all.

While recovering from a broken hip, and after recovering from Covid, Eleanor passed away at age 88, surrounded by her family on March 17, 2021, in the same home she grew up in on the South Hill. After a long struggle with COPD and congestive heart failure, Al passed away at age 89, on April 26, 2025. They both went peacefully to their Lord. Now in Heaven, they are reunited in their love.

Al and Eleanor Windler are survived by their five children: Debbie Edwards, James Windler, John Windler, AnneMarie Stephens, MaryAlice Koop and their spouses; as well as eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; Al's sister, Beverly Hoyer; one nephew on Eleanor's side; and many nieces and nephews on Al's side, all of whom are beloved. What a grand legacy for them both.

May Al and Eleanor Windler rest in peace amidst God's eternal love. Amen.

A Celebration of Life for our dearly departed parents will be held at St. John's Lutheran Church, at 5810 S. Meadow Lane Rd., Spokane, WA, at 11 am, on Saturday, August 2, 2025. If you knew and loved Al and Eleanor Windler, please join us in honoring them on this special occasion.

Please share your memories of Al & Eleanor on their tribute wall at www.hennesseyfh.com.