John Milton Winblad

He was born in Lindsborg, Kansas to Hjalmar and Nora Carlson Winblad on May 17, 1929. He was also loved by his step-mother Martha. John was a four-year letterman in basketball and football in high school and selected All-Conference in both sports his Senior year. He also played trumpet in Band and Orchestra. John graduated from Bethany College in 1951 where he lettered in basketball and football. His jobs included delivering newspapers, farming, construction, working at a funeral home, and selling in his father’s clothing store. His first experience selling life insurance began at age 19.

He felt very blessed to be raised in a Christian home and wonderful church.

After graduating college, John married his high school sweetheart, Shirley Lockstrom. He taught high school and coached basketball. He also worked for General Motors. His insurance career began with State Farm where he was promoted to District Manager in Oklahoma City. In 1956 he joined a company that became American Fidelity Assurance and retired in 1994. He became Vice President and National Sales Manager. John and Shirley participated in 31 conventions with American Fidelity.

His volunteering included fund raising for the United Way; serving as a Director then President of the Lyric Theatre; serving as a Director of Allied Arts; and helping establish Northside All Sports, a youth athletic program. He also served on the Board of Directors for the Center for Non-Profits.

After retirement from American Fidelity, he formed the Winblad Insurance Agency until he retired in 2014.

John and Shirley enjoyed family reunions and many cruises. But most of all they cherished time with their children Debbie, David and Rick. John and Shirley were active in the Covenant Presbyterian Church since its founding in 1955. He sang in the choir, served as Deacon, Elder and Stewardship Chair. He was most proud of his efforts to raise funds for construction of the Sanctuary.

He was survived by daughter Debbie Torri and spouse Tony, son David and spouse Sherry, son Rick and spouse Terri. He had 8 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. He was proceeded in death by his parents, step-mother, brother, wife Shirley, and granddaughter Jennifer Torri.

In lieu of flowers consider a memorial gift to The Covenant Presbyterian Church Endowment Fund . For details call 405.751.2545.

Services will be planned for this Spring.