Lee J. Winterfeldt passed away at the age of 77 on July 2, 2013.
He was born July 25, 1935 to Orvall & Ruth (Last) Winterfeldt on a farm in Shioctin, WI. He worked hard his whole life, from the farm as a child, to his mother’s baker shop (The Model Bakery) in high school. He graduated from Merrill High School in 1952. Enlisted into Airforce after graduation, and then became licensed as a Commercial Pilot, Flight instructor, Ground instructor, and Plane Mechanic after exiting the Armed forces. He also was certified in educational psychology in 1963 and pursued a career in teaching. He was Author and Illustrator of the first ground school manual utilized by Aviation Training Enterprises, Inc.; and Chief ground and flight instructor for Philko Aviation in Chicago, IL. He retired and started a family in 1977 with Suzette Hanson in Merrill, WI. He worked locally at Lincoln Wood Inc for over 20yrs. He retired after extensive surgery in 2004. Even in retirement he enjoyed learning continuously; whether it was a new electronic or the news, he pondered it for hours. He was a member of the FAA and DAV. He also enjoyed nature, fishing, camping, animals, biking, hiking, boating… but most of all his family. He is survived by his wife Suzette (Hanson) Winterfeldt; daughters, Charmain, Melissa, & April; son-in-law Andy (April) Sobiesczyk; and Granddaughter Nora Sobiesczyk. He always said the greatest gift is family; he truly lived for his family. There is no greater man. He was always strong and selfless. We never doubted his love and adoration of us. He was a great teacher and listener. He was a great healer and comforter. We may have taken for granted our time together on earth, but will cherish him for eternity in our hearts. Funeral will be held at Christ United Methodist Church in Merrill at 11 am on Thursday, July 11, followed by a military salute in the church parking lot and dinner afterwards. Pastor Angie Steinhauer will officiate. The Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill, is assisting the family.
Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com