Samuel Lee Winker

Samuel Lee Winker, 82, of Waterford, WI, passed away October 15, 2025.

Sam was born October 1, 1943 in Elroy, WI to Samuel & Ruth (Hoeppner) Winker. On October 17, 1964, Sam married Nancy (Lemke) Winker in La Crosse, WI. In 1971, Sam & Nancy moved from Milwaukee to their first house in Waterford.

Sam was a machinist for Allis-Chalmers proving grounds in Franksville, WI for over 20 years until they closed their doors. Sam then went on to work for Watlow in Richmond, IL until his retirement. He took great pride in doing things right.

Sam enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening, attending high school sporting events, coaching, telling jokes, teasing, giving generously, and going to auctions and rummage sales. In retirement, Sam enjoyed helping with fish fries at St. Thomas church. Sam lived in Waterford for 54 years, Sam developed close-knit ties with family, friends, neighbors, and the community.

Sam is survived by 3 of his 4 children, Roger & (Kelly) Winker, Rich & (Lois) Winker, and Roxanne & (Bryan) Nowak. Grandchildren, Logan (Sammi) Winker, along with great grandchildren, Effie Jo, Bennett, and Millie Jo; Lucas (Emma) Winker along with great grandson, Walter; Emily (Roy) Munroe, Sarah Winker (Nick) Wagner, Elijah Winker, Alexis Winker, Kenzie (fiancé Dakota Mannel), Kendra Winker, and Boyd and Cole Nowak. Siblings included 2 sisters and a brother: Shirley Fried, Evelyn (Bob) Frick, and Ron (Ida) Winker. Sam was preceded in death by his parents Samuel Sr & Ruth Winker, wife Nancy Winker and his son Paul Winker.

A celebration of life will be held at Integrity Celebration Center at 2789 Browns Lake Dr, Burlington, WI 53105 on Saturday, November 15, 2025 from 12:00 - 3:00pm.

A second celebration of life will be celebrated at the Moose Lodge at 932 Ward Ave, La Crosse, WI 54601 on Saturday, December 13, 2025 from 12:00 - 3:00pm.

Sam and his family sends a special thank you to: Rochester fire and rescue, Aurora hospice, and the Golden Years of Lake Geneva

Mealy-Stencel Funeral Home is proudly serving the Winker Family.

• Mealy-Stencel Funeral Home
• 225 W. Main Street
• Waterford, WI 53185
• 262-534-2233
• www.stencelfh.com