Bernard (Ben) A. Winkleman passed away peacefully on Dec. 20, 2020 at Clark County Rehabilitation and Living Center in Owen, Wis. Ben was born Aug. 12, 1946 to the late Bernard and Helen (nee Krueger) Winkelman in Tomahawk. He spent his childhood in Irma, Wis., and attended school at Irma State Graded through 8th grade. Later he attended Merrill High School and graduated in 1962. In 1963 Ben joined the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged in 1966. The majority of Ben’s life was spent as a logger, cutting both locally and out west. Ben lived his life to the fullest. He was an amazing cribbage player and loved Sudoku. Ben’s spirit will live on in each of the lives he touched. All that knew Ben have countless stories to tell about their memories together.
He is survived by his partner, Patricia Roggenbuck of Wausau, Wis.; one brother, Larry (Debi) Winkelman of Tomahawk; and five sisters, Sally (Leonard) Smith of Harrison, Mich., Joan Powers of Canton, Ohio, Carol Caylor of Merrill, Linda Koob of Crossville, Tenn., and Paulina Osness of Merrill. He is further survived by many nieces and nephews.
Ben was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard and Helen, his wife, Sue (nee Day) Winkleman, and two brothers-in-law, Steve Osness and Dan Caylor.
In accordance with Ben’s wishes, no formal service will be held. A celebration of life will take place at a later date in 2021.