John Fredrick Winkley

John Frederick “Rick” Winkley, age 70, of East Hartford, beloved husband of the former Virginia Carol Brown since 1986, peacefully joined his Savior and Lord after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer on August 3, 2017 with his family by his side at his home. John was born on November 9, 1946 in Norwich to the late Frederick and Pauline Winkley who resided in Vernon. He graduated from Newington High School and went on to receive a certificate in Computer Networking from ITT Institute. John was employed by Manchester Hospital, Connecticut Bank and Trust, and the East Hartford Public Schools before retiring in 2010. He was a faithful member of Crossroads Community Church and active in the East Hartford Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and the Radio Relay League. John enjoyed volunteering at church and will be most remembered for his kind spirit and dedicated faith which he courageously demonstrated to the end.

John was predeceased earlier this year by his brother, Malcom Winkley, of East Haddam, who left behind his beloved wife, Margaret, and their adult children Christian, Joshua, Matthew, Travis, and Caitlin. In addition to John’s wife, Virginia, he is survived by his son, Daniel Winkley, of Chester; his step-son, Chaplain Mark Winward, of Camp Lejeune, and his wife, Kathleen, and their sons, Christian and Matthew; and John’s treasured parakeet, Blue-Boy.

Flowers are welcome or, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Crossroads Community Cathedral.

Calling hours will be held from 5:00-7:00 PM on Friday, August 11, at Newkirk & Whitney Funeral Home, 318 Burnside Avenue, East Hartford. John’s Celebration of Life Service will be at 10:00 AM on Saturday, August 12, at Crossroads Community Cathedral, 1492 Silver Lane, East Hartford, everyone is asked to meet directly at the Cathedral. Burial will follow immediately at Center Cemetery behind First Congregational Church, 993 Main Street, South Windsor. Everyone is asked to meet directly at the Cathedral. For tributes, online condolences or directions, please visit www.newkirkandwhitney.com.