Obituary of John Franklin Winger

HAINES CITY - John Franklin Winger, 88, loyal and loving husband, father and grandfather entered peacefully into eternal rest on February 29, 2012. John was a native Floridian who lived out his long and prosperous life in Haines City, Florida being born December 13, 1923. In keeping with his dedication to his native state, John was recognized as a "true pioneer" in 2001 by the local historical society. He attended Haines City's public schools graduating from Haines City High School. Following his graduation from high school he selflessly joined the United States Marine Corp in 1942 and was based in the Philippines during WW II. Following a 4 year dedication of service to his country, he returned home in 1946. John then attended and was graduated from Stetson University in 1950 where he played football and earned his degree in Management and Finance. After graduating he returned home to marry his high school sweetheart and love of his life. He was married to Nancy Pettit Smith Winger for 59 years and is survived by his wife. He is also survived by one brother, Jacob Melville Winger of Tyler, Texas, two daughters, Rosemary Winger Watts and Rachel Anne Catherine Unser , as well as one son, Lisle Smith Winger. John has eight grandchildren. They are Jacob and Nicholas Winger, Jane Elizabeth, John Carlisle, and Joshua Watts and John Charles, Nancy Rose, and Anna Catherine Unser. John was a wonderful family man. He provided a fine example and faithfully served as an ordained elder, Sunday school and Bible study teacher for the First Presbyterian Church in Haines City for which he is the final local legacy of its charter members in 1925; his parents Jacob Melville and Mary Catherine Miller Winger. John also enjoyed serving his community as a Rotarian member and past President, along with participating as a board member on Haines City's Planning Commission. Some of John's fondest pastimes were spent engaging or spectating as a sports enthusiast. He was passionate about his golf game, he enjoyed playing tennis, but loved all sports in general! John never refused a game or a helping hand to anyone. John will be remembered by those who knew him and loved him, by his devoted and consistent love of family and friends, and his dependable and predictable service toward God and others. A celebration of Life service will be held at the First Presbyterian Church at 11:00 am, Thursday, March 8th located at 104 Scenic Highway, Haines City, Fl 33844. The family will receive friends in visitation the prior evening at Oak Ridge Funeral Care from 5:00 - 7:00 pm, located at 1001 grace Ave., Haines City. In lieu of flowers and in memoriam gifts may be made to the First Presbyterian Church in Haines City. Condolences may be made to www.oakridgefuneralcare.com.