Samuel Theodore Winkler

Samuel Theodore Winkler, age 95, of Gustine, Texas passed away on Monday April 13, 2020 at home in Gustine. Samuel was born August 16, 1924 to Anna C. Beisert and Oscar F. Winkler at The Grove, Coryell County, Texas, sixth born of 11 boys and 1 girl. He was baptized, confirmed, married and now will be laid to rest at St. Paul Lutheran Church, The Grove, Texas.

He graduated high school from Concordia, Austin, Texas.

Sam proudly served his country with the 8th Air Force in the USAAF (United States Army Air Force) as an Armorer (tail-gunner) in the B-17 Bomber 1943 thur 1945, flying 18 missions across the English Channel into the European Theater. He received his Air Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Crew Member Wings and 3 Bronze Stars and 2 Oakleaf Clusters.

Samuel Married Mildred Arvine Urbantke November 3, 1946 at St. Paul Lutheran, The Grove. She preceded him in death August 4, 2016.

Samuel is survived by his two sons and two daughters, Linda Stroebel and husband Carl, Gary Winkler and wife Joan, Beverly Wood and husband Bobby Joe and Clifford Winkler and wife Tracey, six grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, his brother, Norman and wife Frances Winkler, sister in law, Florence Winkler and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Samuel passed away peacefully at home where, he lived with his daughter Beverly and Bobby Joe in Gustine, Texas, Comanche County on Monday, April 13, 2020 with 95 1/2 blessed years.

Memorials in his remembrance may be made to his beloved St. Paul Lutheran Church, The Grove, Texas.

A visitation for Samuel will be held Wednesday, April 15, 2020 from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. A private burial will be at The Grove Cemetery.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.crawfordbowerstemple.com for the Winkler family.