Gary James Winkel

Soon after graduation, Gary began his career as a pipeliner, later advancing into welding with Lakehead Pipeline now currently known as Enbridge Energy. He retired in 2008 after 37 years of service.

Gary married the former Janice Lynn Blakely on June 23, 1990 in Manistique celebrating 33 years together. Jan affectionately known as “Sweetie” was the love of his life. They had two children, daughter Tracy and son Joe. Though he lived the greater part of his life in Manistique, Gary and Jan relocated to Cape Coral, Florida upon retirement. He had fun riding his tractor around town mowing neighbor’s lawns, and we dare say, they loved it too! Gary enjoyed building campfires, gardening, and tinkering in his garage. He was always building or welding something! He enjoyed attending his twin grandson’s sporting events. You could always find him with a Diet Coke in hand and smoking a cigarette.

Gary is survived by his wife, Janice of Cape Coral, Fla.; daughter, Tracy (Jason) Prokopetz, Cape Coral, Fla.; son, Joe (Frankie Bliss) Meadows of Munising, Mich.; brother, Rick (Donna) Winkel of Manistique; sisters, Cindy (Dan) Rodgers of Gulliver, Mich.; Deb (Ferris) Musgrave of Manistique, Mich.; niece, Laura (Jon) Carlson and nephew Dave Winkel, both of Manistique. Gary is also survived by his grandchildren Jadon and Jaron Prokopetz, Eiza, Elijah, Ezamae Bliss along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Helen Winkel; brother, Robert Winkel; infant sister, Kay Lynn Winkel and father-in-law, Donald Blakely.

Memorial donations in Gary’s name can be made to Manistique Area Schools Foundation.

A public visitation will be held on Monday, October 30, at Fausett Family Funeral Homes from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with graveside service at Fairview Cemetery at 2 p.m. with Father Ben Paris officiating.

Fausett Family Funeral Homes is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.