Herman August Winkelman

Herman” Wink” Winkelman was born in Columbus, Nebraska on May 8th, 1925 and went on to be with the Lord on December 14th, 2017, having lived a wonderful life making a lasting impact on countless people as a husband, father, father-in-law, grand-father, great-grand-father, great-great grand-father and friend to many. His impact on his family, his life long love of aviation and above all his faith in Jesus Christ will forever be with us. While in High School, Wink was approached by his Principle and school counselor to apply to the Naval Officer Flight program. On July 7th, 1943 during WWII, he was accepted into Flight Prep at Doane College in Crete Nebraska, receiving his pilot wings in 1945. He went on to serve as a naval fighter pilot assigned to the USS Tarawa, USS Saipan, USS Oriskany, USS Coral Sea, and USS Antitiam. He retired at the rank of Lieutenant Commander in 1962 from the Naval Reserves. In the 50’s, Wink was hired as a civilian transport pilot while continuing his Naval Reserve duty. He was hired by National Airlines which later merged with Pan American Airlines. He flew various aircraft culminating his career in 1985 with a full qualification on the Boeing 747 and the rank of Captain. Rest in peace in the amazing kingdom God has prepared for you. You fought the fight, finished the race and kept the faith. The crown of righteousness is laid up for you, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to you – and not only to you, but to all who crave His appearing. (from 2 Timothy, 4: 6-8)