William H Winch

William H. "Wild Bill" Winch, age 72, of rural Mankato, died Thursday, November 8, 2007 at his home.

Memorial service will be held 6:00 p.m., Monday, November 12, 2007 at Mankato Mortuary, with Rev. Robert Schneider officiating. Visitation will be 4:00 p.m. until the service time on Monday.

Bill was born February 25, 1935 in Madelia. He was the son of Earl and Anna (Ferguson) Winch. Bill was raised by his grandparents, Johnny and Erma Winch in rural Truman. He attended Truman High School. Bill was united in marriage to Marjorie "Margie" Osborne on February 9, 1957 in Madelia. He was a long time truck driver for area companies including Carpenter Transfer. Bill was a lifetime member and Past President of Kato Cycle Club in Mankato, lifetime charter member of the AMA, lifetime member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Mankato, and member of the NRA and Local Teamsters Union. He was a motorcycle enthusiast who made his annual trip to Sturgis for over 40 years. Bill enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and played Santa Claus for the kids at the Kato Cycle Club Christmas parties. He also enjoyed gardening, always trying to grow the "great pumpkin", and woodworking, especially "rocking cycles" for kids. Bill and Margie proudly celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this year.

Bill is survived by his wife, Margie of rural Mankato; son, John (Joleen) Winch of Mankato; two daughters, Roxanne Winch of Des Moines, IA and Wanda Winch of rural Mankato; three grandchildren, Nicole, Marcus, and Garret Winch; two half-brothers, Kenny (Val) Winch and Gary Winch; half-sister, Anna (Merlin) Miller; three sisters-in-law, Karen Paulson and her fianc", Jim Riese, Kay (Daryl) Hippert, and Vivian (Butch) Peyman; uncle, Elmer (Velda) Winch; also many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Larry Winch.