Obituary of Ivan Winger

It is with great sadness we announce the sudden passing of Ivan Wesley Winger, in our family home at the age of 79. Reunited with his devoted wife Judy. Loving Dad to his 4 girls Michelle (Michael) Piett, Tammy (Rod) Parker, Nicole (Micheal) Empringham and Elisha (Travis) Smith. Proud grandpa and papa to his 13 grandchildren: Rebecca (David) Hicks, Sarah (Jairo) Meza, Jacob (Selam) Piett, Josiah (Kara Lee) Piett; Brianna and William Popovich; Carson, Lily and Marcus Empringham; Owen (Laura), Taylor (Noah), Nolan and Alannah Smith; and 10 great grandchildren Wesley, James, Luke and Jude Hicks; Abby and Micah Meza; Ezra and Ethan Piett; Colton Piett and Oliver Smith. Survived by his siblings Sharon, Sandra (Brian), Lyle, Orlin, Dale (Colleen) and Nancy. Predeceased by his parents Bert and Shirley and sibling Glen. The eldest of 8, Dad grew up in a busy household and was taught at an early age the art of custom carpentry from his father Bert. He built his family home at the age of 22. He further went on to self employment of “Ivan Wingers Custom Carpentry” that to this day can still be heard on his old school answering machine. Well known in the community, he built homes with integrity and had longstanding relationships with many clients. Dad devoted his life to service in the church in various roles as youth leader, usher, deacon, and board member. Blessing those around him, his deep bass harmonized many hymns, family songs, carols and campfire songs. His greatest passion was Camp Kahquah. Physically and spiritually he was “Uncle Ivan” the legend… Camp counselor for over 45 years, his heart and passion for leading boys to Christ was known by all who ‘got off that bus.’ Missions was also a large part of his life, serving in Haiti, Cuba, Honduras and Nicaragua. He worked on many projects building homes, churches and orphanages. In recent years Dad has been known for selling Award winning Maple Syrup at a number of local markets (procured from his closest friend and owners of Maple Tap Farm) With the biggest smile, Elvis sideburns, and his famous cowboy boots, dad exuded an outgoing character full of mischief and adventure, fostering new relationships with everyone who crossed his path. Arrangements entrusted to Williams Funeral Home, 722 Ridge Rd North, Ridgeway with visitation on Thursday Jan 29th from 1-3 and 5-8. Funeral service will take place at Port Colborne BIC Church on Friday Jan 30th at 11 am with lunch to follow. Interment at Bertie Brethren in Christ Cemetery on Church Rd Stevensville. Donations in his memory may be made to Camp Kahquah