Obituary of Ernie Walter Lee Winkles
Ernie Walter Lee Winkles was born on July 26, 1953, in Detroit, Michigan. He was one of six children born to the union of Ernest Eugene and Jessie Ermel (Laster) Winkles. After graduating from High School, Ernie continued his education at Baker College where he proudly received his Bachelor of Business degree. He was employed as a superintendent of materials and handling at Ford Motor Company for forty-eight years. A dedicated employee, Ernie valued hard work and prided himself on taking care of his family.
As someone who treasured the great outdoors, Ernie enjoyed hunting in Glennie, Michigan and took the opportunity to drop a line in Lake Erie any time he could. He could often be seen riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle everywhere and anywhere. Traveling with his wife Cheryl by his side, the duo visited many places throughout their lives together.
Although he never played professionally, Ernie was a musician at heart and enjoyed many classic tunes. He owned several guitars, including his prized Gibson guitars. Ernie was also the proud owner of a classic 1962 Red Chevy Impala Super Sport vehicle: his dream car.
Ernie Walter Lee Winkles, age 67, passed away on Monday June 14, 2021. He was preceded by his parents: Ernest and Jesse Winkles, one sister: Ruby Niphoratos and one brother: Albert Winkles.
Left to cherish his memory, he leaves his wife: Cheryl Winkles, six children: Anthony Lee (Shanna Marie) Winkles, Jamie Leann Winkles, Shannon Lee Winkles, Rodney Purkey, Amy Purkey, and Andrea Purkey; one sister: Millie (Tommy) Gee, two brothers: Earnest Lee (Evelyn) Winkles, Tony Gene (JoAnn) Winkles and five grandchildren: Justin Lee Winkles, Joshua Matthew Villarreal, Kayla LeeAnn Winkles, P.J. Jones and GeGe.
Friends may gather on Thursday, June 17, 2021, from 3:00pm until a Masonic Service led by the Monroe Lodge 27 at 6:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe; 14567 South Dixie Highway, Monroe, Michigan 48161 (734) 241-7070. Online guests may visit www.merklefs.com to leave words of comfort and inspiration or to share a photo.
