Joseph A. Winkel, age 86 of Millhome, passed away unexpectedly with his loving family by his side at Aurora Medical Center, Sheboygan County on Sunday, August 20, 2023.

Joe was born on November 15, 1936,  to the late Leo and Henrietta (Heus) Winkel in Marytown. He was an active member of St. Mary's Catholic Parish until he relocated to Millhome.  Joe joined the Army National Guard serving his country for several years.  He drove semi across the country as well as locally; he did prefer a trip out west over going to the east coast, but never complained about his job.  During one of his many trips to Des Moine, Iowa, he found his special person; Pauline, who gave Joe love, care, compassion and laughter.  What started as a walk by the river has been 25 years of walking together.

He was found most days outside, just enjoying the outdoors; he could be found fishing on the lakes around the area, or his yearly trip with his extended family up north to a cabin; and hunting trips that would include going with his many friends.

Joe was quiet to many, but had a great sense of humor to those that knew him.  He was a man of very strong faith, as being a member of his parish meant a lot to him.

He is survived by Pauline, brothers: Johnny and Richie; sister-in-law: Rose Ann; nieces and nephews: Julie (Charlie), Sue (Jim), Dan (Lisa), Alan (Amy), Nonita and John (Paula); Pauline's children: Ann (Steve), Lynn and Jay (Kathy) and their families.  He is further survived by his great nieces and  great nephews that he enjoyed watching grow up , other relatives and many special friends.  As Joe was known to say "there is only one Isabelle,"  she was his canine companion that would come for weekends at uncle Joe's and was by his side during his recent stays in the hospital and nursing home.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents; sister: Marie, brother: Alfred and sister-in-law: Edna.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, August 30, 2023 at SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church (413 Fremont St. Kiel).  Presiding at the service will be Pastor Fr. Alvan Amadi and concelebrating will be Fr. Carl Diedriches with Deacon Bernard "Pat" Knier assisting.  Military Honors will be accorded by the Kiel VFW Post #6707 following the mass, with entombment to be held at Knollwood Memorial Park, Manitowoc. The family will greet relatives and friends at the church from 9:30 AM until 10:30 AM when family rites will be held.

Pauline and Joe's family would like to thank the Kiel Ambulance Service, Aurora Sheboygan Clinic and Hospital, especially the ICU staff and the INR clinic for going above and beyond for Joe and treating him like family.  Rocky Knoll Health Care Center for the wonderful care they provided for the week Joe was there as well as the Aurora Hospice for the great care shown to Joe in your short time with him.