Gay Denise Winckler

Gay Winckler, 78 of Punta Gorda, FL passed away peacefully at her home, Sept 21, 2025 surrounded by her family. Born in Aurora, IL May 16, 1947 of William and Ruth Schomer.

Gay was devoted to her Catholic faith. She grew up attending Our Lady Of Good Counsel grade school and Madonna High School forming genuine friendships that carried throughout her life.

Gay married Vernon Winckler of Hinckley-Big Rock in 1968. They welcomed three children during their love story.

Gay was known for her kindness, generosity, and deep compassion. She was a source of strength and often advice. She was hardworking. Gay worked in banking early on as well as alongside of her husband on the farm. Later, Gay built a distinguished career in telecommunications for more than 25+ years. Afterwords, she worked at Brenart Eye Clinic in Yorkville and finally Mercy Medical Center in Behavioral Health intake. Gay took pride in her professional accomplishments and travel. She never encountered a problem that she didn’t look at as a challenge to overcome. Beyond her professional life she found joy in her family who were truly the pride of her life.

Gay had passions through the years including Bowling, her love of foreign languages, Piano, Cooking, and Wine. She enjoyed taking part in her children’s and grandchildren’s extracurricular activities. She found joy in nature growing flowers. Hummingbirds, Scrubjays, and tortoises were among her favorite distractions.

Gay is survived by her devoted husband, Vern; her children Erik (Monica) Winckler, Kristin (Robert) Hanna, and Chad Winckler; her beloved grandchildren Wyatt Eggli, Sophia Winckler, Julia Winckler, Aftyn Hanna, and Ava Winckler. She leaves behind her sisters Mardee Schomer (Doug Burnette), Jerri (Stephen) Panyko; and many dear friends.

Gay’s memory will live on in the music she loved, the garden she tended, and the countless acts of generosity she shared throughout her life.

She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and devotion that will continue to inspire those who were blessed to know her

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