Mishawaka- Donald Van Winkle, 58, passed away unexpectedly due to heart failure early Saturday morning in spite of the best efforts of first responders.
Don was born in South Bend, IN on February 15, 1962 to Elizabeth (Horvath) Johnson and Donald E. Van Winkle. He grew up in Niles, MI and graduated from Brandywine High School in 1980. He served in the U.S Air Force until his honorable discharge in 1985. He worked for over 30 years in the medical field, most recently for the Activate Clinic in Elkhart, IN, and took pride in being able to help countless patients over the years. He loved animals of all types. He loved to joke and laugh, and was happiest when around those he loved.
Don leaves behind his children: Joshua, Sarah, Courtney, and Kayla Van Winkle of South Bend IN; his grandchildren: Hannah, Mathew, Caidence, Kamryn, Karter, and great grandchild Kairi; his sisters: Tammy (Michael) Fry of South Bend, IN and Julie (Bryon) Niswonger of Granger, IN, as well as members of his work family. He goes on to join his mother, father, and sister, Lori.
Services by invitation only due to Covid-19 restrictions will be Friday at McGann Hay Funerals – Cremations – Gatherings, Granger Chapel, 13260 SR 23, Granger, with Rev. Kevin Bauman, Pastor of Our Lady of Hungary Catholic Church, officiating.
The family asks that those wishing to honor Don’s memory may do so by making a donation in lieu of flowers to any local animal rescue organization. To send private condolences or to share memories, please visit www.McGannHay.com