Donald L Vanwinkle

Donald L. "Don" VanWinkle, 84, of Galesburg, died on Wednesday, March 15, 2017, 12:35 PM, at Galesburg Cottage Hospital. Don was born on September 13, 1932, in McDonough County, Illinois. He was the son of Vernie and Neva (Frakes) VanWinkle. He married the love of his life, Betty Jean Larson on January 14, 1956, in Peoria, Illinois. Betty preceded him in death on October 31, 2016. Don is survived by four children; Daryl L. (Trish) VanWinkle of Abingdon, Terri M. (Scott) Molaro of Las Vegas, NV, Pamela L. (Bob) Colwell of Galesburg, and Laurie J. (Gary) Riney of Abingdon; a sister, Jody (Ken) Sparks of Las Vegas, NV; a brother-in-law, Don Light of Knoxville; eight grandchildren; and thirteen great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Along with his loving wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Michael Wayne; a grandson, Shane VanWinkle; and two sisters, Marjorie Agans, and Vicki Light; and a brother-in-law, Gale Agans. Don graduated from Galesburg High School. He attended Western Illinois University and Brown's Business College. Don was a veteran of the United States Army, serving in the Korean War. He received a Purple Heart for his honor, valor, and bravery. Don retired as a pressman at the Register Mail after working for 34 years. He was a member of the Galesburg American Legion Post 285 and Trinity Lutheran Church. He loved to hunt, fish, boat, bowl, play cards, billiards, and horse shoes. He also liked enjoyed woodworking and visiting casinos. Most of all, Don loved to spend time with his family, especially his wife, Betty. They were always inseparable. The family takes comfort in knowing that after this short time they are finally together again. Per Don's wishes, cremation rites have been accorded. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 22, 2017, from 10-11 AM, at Watson-Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory. A memorial service will follow at 11 AM. Military rites will be conducted at the funeral home. Pastor Nancy Wilson will officiate. Private family burial of cremated remains for Don and Betty will be held at a later date at Knoxville Cemetery, Knoxville, Illinois. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson-Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Memorials in Don's honor may be donated to the Alzheimer's Association or to the Defenders of Freedom Veteran's Home and Shelter.