Winkler, Gladys Clara Christina (Tonn) over 102 years young, a longtime resident of Phoenix, died January 31, 2013 in Henderson Nevada. Gladys was born at the family farm in Haven Kansas on July 28, 1910 to William H. Tonn and Martha (Schlickau) Tonn, the second of 4 children. She graduated as a teacher from Kansas State University, where she met graduate student Marion R. Winkler from Atchison. They were married in Haven August 28, 1937. Living in various cities as the family grew, Motorola moved them to Phoenix in 1950, where Gladys settled. At the time 44th Street was known as Chicago Ave, and the family lived WAY out of town at 20th Street and Camelback. As part of raising 3 children, Gladys also included Cub Scout Den Mother, Camelback HS Band Booster, and other significant titles to her achievements. Gladys became active with the local Zeta Tau Alpha alumnae, and also the Kachina Womens Club of the General Federation of Womens Clubs. These provided camaraderie as well as supporting numerous charitable and civic activities. A few Bridge clubs were enjoyed along the way, too. In 1958, Gladys returned to her teaching career, beginning at Samuel Gompers Memorial Clinic where her class of children had severe physical challenges. She later taught special education children at several schools in Phoenix, and in Tucson, where they lived for a few years. All who met Gladys were buoyed by her bright and upbeat manner. She was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend to many. Her gentle manner was matched by her hard work, and her legacy will endure in all those she has touched. She will be missed. Left to mourn are her sister Wilma Boggs, her children Barbara Skutsch of Tucson, Bill (Donna) of Portland Oregon, and Jim (Julie) of Henderson Nevada, her grandchildren Carl (Kristin), Fr Chauncey, Christin (Kelli), Sarah (Adam), David, Jackson, Scott and Grant, and five great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews and cousins. The family has suggested memorials in Gladys's name to Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 3110 N Hayden Rd, Scottsdale AZ 85251, or to Grace Lutheran Church, 2657 W Horizon Ridge Pkwy, Henderson NV 89052. Funeral is scheduled for NOON on Friday, February 8, 2013, at Green Acres Chapel of Light, 401 N Hayden Rd, Scottsdale AZ 85257. Burial next to her late husband Marion will follow the service.
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