John W. Whitey Winter, Jr.

On January 11, 2017, John Worrell Winter, Jr., peacefully joined his wife Carol at age 77. Born August 24, 1939, the son of Dr. John W. Winter and Martha Wiseman Winter, John was a graduate of Texas Military Institute and the University of Texas at Austin. "Whitey", as he was affectionately known because of his golden turned white locks, was always quick with a great, if not risqué, joke and a smile, and absolutely lived life to its fullest. Generous, fun, compassionate, and always succeeding in livening the spirits of those around him, Whitey celebrated every moment of life, often with a delicious meal and libation, always sharing in the camaraderie of the moment. Whitey was known for his annual birthday celebrations and love of mariachi music. The life of the party, John was also a competitive spirit: a calculating and meticulous gin rummy player, a tennis player, a golfer, a skilled wing-shooter, and a successful businessman. He proudly displayed the trophy won as the city gin rummy champion.

Whitey found his true calling with his lawn maintenance and landscaping business; proudly beautifying properties throughout the state and country for 40 years, including Randolph Air Force Base and the National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. Whitey, always with a camera by his side, often captured precious moments of friends and strangers alike, giving the photos to his subjects for their own enjoyment. Whether in business or personal endeavors, Whitey was the source of tremendous joy to others.

Whitey loved Carol, his wife of 37 years, where during their marriage they traveled many continents and spent time together at the coast. John was also a wonderful father who selflessly and tirelessly dedicated much of his time to his three sons and their friends. Hunting, fishing, skiing, riding motorcycles, and countless adventures in Mexico and Costa Rica are only some of the experiences they enjoyed together. Whitey will be missed by many, and the family offers their sincere appreciation for the support they have received.

John was also a 50-year member of The Texas Cavaliers, a member of the Order of The Alamo, The San Antonio German Club, and the San Antonio Country Club.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Carolyn B. Winter. John is survived by his sister and brother in law, Winifred and Bartlett Cocke, Jr.; his sons David Russo, John W. Winter, III, and West W. Winter; his daughters-in-law Mary Heather Welder Russo and Tracy Lappin Winter; and his grandchildren Campbell Russo, Richard Winter, and West Winter, Jr.; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Honorary pallbearers are Van Archer, Jr., Dr. John Beauchamp, Clyde Crews, Jr., Sanford Grossman, Peter F. Herff, II, Chilton Maverick, Reagin McAllister, J. Patrick "Pat" Quirk, Joseph "Joey" S. Satel and Leo Perron, Jr.

Visitation will be Sunday, January 15, 2017, 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., at Porter Loring Mortuary on McCullough Ave.

Memorial Service

Monday

January 16, 2017

2:30 P.M

Christ Episcopal Church

510 Belknap Place

With a reception to follow.

The Reverend Reagan Cocke and The Reverend Dr. Patrick Gahan, Officiating. A private interment will take place in Sunset Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to The Texas Cavaliers Charitable Foundation, P.O. Box 6927, San Antonio, TX 78209; the Cancer Therapy Research Center, 7979 Wurzbach Road, San Antonio, TX 78229; or charity of your choice.