Elliot Winkler

Elliot Winkler, age 70, passed away on Thursday night, March 12th, in the presence of his family. Born in Bronx, New York, he was the second child of Morris and Anne Winkler. Elliot and his sister, Elinor, grew up with his loving parents and many members of his extended family, and from this nurturing environment, he learned the importance of surrounding himself with those he loved. From a young age, Elliot was outgoing and energetic. Boy Scouts, diving, soccer, ice skating, and basketball are just a few of the activities that filled his time as a young man. He attended the renowned Stuyvesant High School, balancing his studies with athletics. After the Vietnam War began, Elliot was drafted into the Army and served as a radio mechanic in Germany. He returned to civilian life in 1969 and joined Merrill Lynch where he served in many roles throughout the company, settling in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was a member of the Ogden office until the day he died.

Elliot has been a part of the Salt Lake Jewish community for over three decades. He shared his passion for Judaism with his family and friends. Everyone knew they could always find a Shabbos meal at the Winkler home. He and his family are members of Congregation Kol Ami where he volunteered in many capacities over the years including being a part of the Kol Ami Choir, Religious Practices Committee, and Usher. Together with his wife Debra, Elliot led many community Passover Seders, both at his home and at Kol Ami. Elliot’s favorite past times included teaching his children how to have a positive outlook on life and the joy of Judaism as well as how to fish, golf, bowl, play cards, and enjoy the outdoors. Elliot also loved the theater and was proud of his performance as “Stew Pot” in South Pacific as a young adult.

In 2013, Elliot was diagnosed with stomach cancer. He fought the disease with all his might and would not allow the cancer to bring down his spirit.

Elliot is survived by his wife, Debra, and their seven children: Michael (Marcia), Joshua (Debbie), Samuel (Amy), Nathaniel (Dana), Shira (Danny), Layah (David), and Marnina; and ten grandchildren: Benji, Hannah, Ari, Avi, Kate, Penelope, Kayla, Ethan, Natan, and Miriam; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

It has been such a blessing to have the warmth of the community that Elliot loved so much, who supported our family during these difficult last few months. Thank you and Todah Rabbah to all for your love and true friendship.

The family wishes to express thanks to Elliot’s doctors, Dr. Samuelson and Dr. Sharma, and their staffs for their friendship and commitment to help Elliot through his long illness.

The Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, March 16, at Evans & Early Mortuary, 574 East 100 South. The Graveside Service follows, with Military Honors, at Shaare Zedek Cemetery, 962 East 11th Avenue. Donations in Elliot's memory may be made to the Sanctuary Fund of Congregation Kol Ami and to Bais Menachem. Shiva will be held at the Winkler family home. Online condolences may be shared at www.evans-earlymortuary.com.