Michael Winkfield

Michael Winkfield was born on November 13, 1966, in Cincinnati, Ohio, and he passed away peacefully at his residence on December 9, 2025, surrounded by his wife and children. Michael was raised in the Catholic faith and served as an altar server for many years in his youth, instilling in him a sense of devotion and discipline that carried throughout his life. He attended Saint Xavier High School in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he formed lifelong friendships that remained a source of strength and joy. He later pursued his undergraduate studies at Wright State University, where, at the tender age of 19, he met the love of his life, Tracy. Michael went on to achieve his MBA from Franklin University in 1997, a milestone that reflected his dedication to learning and his drive to excel. Together, Michael and Tracy built a marriage that lasted 34 years, filled with devotion, laughter, and countless shared experiences. They enjoyed each other’s company in so many ways, whether working side by side in the yard, watching television shows, attending concerts, tackling remodeling projects, or most importantly, spending time with their adult children and grandchildren. At 34 years of marriage, they renewed their wedding vows to reaffirm their love and commitment to one another, celebrating not only their enduring bond but also the blessing of one more year that Mike was given on this earth.

Michael lived for a short time in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in his youth, where he became a devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan. Throughout the years, he had great fun exchanging playful banter with his friends who cheered for the “Stanky” Bengals or the Browns, always keeping the rivalry lighthearted and full of laughter.

Though Michael was not naturally a dog person, he often joked that Tracy used her “jedi mind tricks” on him, and before long, he found himself happily sharing his life with two large golden doodles. They became part of the family, bringing joy and companionship into his days.

Michael was most recently employed as a Clinical Account Manager with Travere Therapeutics. During his employment with Travere, Mike not only enjoyed sharing his knowledge with physicians to better guide their clinical decision making, but he also developed some lifelong friends. Mike enjoyed his time working at Travere, where he found purpose and camaraderie among his colleagues and leadership. He valued the friendships he built there and the respect he earned, carrying those connections with gratitude throughout his life.

Michael battled cancer for nearly 2 years since diagnosis with strength and dignity; applying his sharp analytical mind to every aspect of his journey. He tirelessly researched new treatments, studied clinical trials, and spoke with his doctors in a way that reflected both his determination and intellect. His efforts to extend his time on earth were driven by his deep love for his family and his unwavering will to live.

Beyond his family and friends, Michael had a deep passion for the things that sparked his imagination and intellect. He was an avid fan of Doctor Who and Star Trek, finding inspiration in their stories of exploration, hope, and discovery. He loved video games, which kept his mind sharp and playful, and he had a remarkable talent for building computers and exploring new technology and gadgets. His enthusiasm for innovation was contagious, and he delighted in sharing his knowledge with others. Mike was known for his “Wink-isms”, the stories and sayings he shared that carried lessons from his life experiences and reflected how he viewed the world around him. These thoughtful reflections, often delivered with humor and wisdom, became part of his legacy and a source of guidance and laughter for those who knew him.

Michael’s legacy is one of curiosity, creativity, and devotion. He will be remembered not only for the love he gave his family but also for the joy he found in the worlds of science fiction, technology, and play. His memory will live on in the laughter of his grandchildren, the stories told by his loved ones, and the countless lives he touched with his kindness and wisdom.

Michael was preceded in death by his father, Michael Winkfield, and his grandparents, Eliza “Mom” Moore and Moses “Dad” Moore.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Tracy “Mommy” Winkfield, his lifelong partner and constant source of strength, laughter, and love. His daughter, Ariel “Poobie, RN” Winkfield, his pride and joy, whose compassion as a nurse touched many lives. For Michael, her greatest act of healing was the love and care she gave him when he needed her the most. His son, Michael “Budman” Winkfield, whose bond with his father was one of deep friendship and pride, and daughter-in-law Keya Winkfield, his “apprentice” who often joined him on projects and teased that she was his favorite, though she was the only one. Their children, Kohen and Langston, his grandsons, who were his world and gave him reason to live. To them, he was their beloved “G-Dad,” sharing Target runs, Fortnite battles, chess matches, and cheering at every sporting event. They affectionately named him their “All-Year-Round Santa,” a title he embraced with joy. He is also survived by his sister, Robin (Joe) Schnieders, and their children Ben, Hannah, Cooper, and Lucas; his stepmother, Gayle Winkfield; along with a host of aunts, uncles and friends who loved him dearly.

A celebration of life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at Schoedinger Funeral Home, 5980 Perimeter Drive, Dublin, Ohio 43017. Visitation will take place from 8:30-10:00 a.m. prior to the service. Interment will follow at Wesley Chapel Cemetery.

In honor of Michael's life, and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Multiple Myeloma Research Fund at The Ohio State University

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