Billy “Bill” Joe Winger, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and community leader passed away April 30, 2024 at Peabody Healthcare Center in North Manchester. Born on December 14, 1945, in Huntington, Bill lived a full and vibrant life, dedicated to his family, his farm, and his country. After graduating from Manchester High School in 1964, Bill continued his education at Purdue University Agriculture Short class before he was drafted into the United States Army. Bill answered the call to serve in the United States Army, bravely fighting in Vietnam before his honorable discharge in 1967.
A true man of the land, Bill was a dedicated farmer, embodying the values of hard work and perseverance. Throughout his life, Bill made significant contributions to his community. He served on the Manchester Community School Board for eight years, with four years as president, and worked with the Farm Service Agency for two decades. A proud veteran, Bill was a lifetime member of the American Legion Post 286 and the VFW in Wabash, embodying the values of service and sacrifice. He was also a member of the Moose Lodge 1518 in North Manchester. His legacy of hard work, integrity, and kindness lives on in all those who were fortunate enough to know him.
The loving memory of Bill Winger will be forever cherished by wife Linda Frieden Winger, North Manchester; his children John (Jennifer Bradway) Winger, Jim (Heather) Winger, and Julie (Jeff) Curtis, all of North Manchester; step-children, Krista (Gary) Cagle, North Manchester and Blake (Tasha) Williams, Fort Wayne; sister Peg (Larry) Herendeen, North Manchester; grandchildren, Sam Winger, Emmaline Winger, Justin Cagle, Andrew Cagle, Maris Williams, and Milena Williams; great-grandchildren, Paisley and Remi Jo Cagle. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, John W. and Ruth Eleanor (Meyer) Winger.
Family and friends may call Friday, May 3, 2024 from 1:00 to 7:00 p.m. at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester. Funeral services will begin Saturday, May 4, 2024 at 11:00a.m. with calling beginning at 10:00 a.m. at McKee Mortuary with Pastor J.P. Freeman officiating. Burial will be held at Oaklawn Cemetery, 600 Beckley Street, North Manchester. The United States Army and American Legion Post 286 will perform military honors at the graveside.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Manchester High School Basketball program, 1 Squire Drive, North Manchester, Indiana 46962 or Wabash Saddle Club, 1423 West Division Road, Huntington, Indiana 46750.
The family of Bill Winger has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.
Condolences may be emailed to mckeemortuary.com