July 4, 1930 - August 18, 2021
In Loving Memory ~ Ernest Matthew Winkelmann was born and raised in Nanaimo, BC, to Emmaline and Leopold Winkelmann.
In 1951, he met the love of his life, Barbara Ganderton, and they wed on August 28th, 1953, going on to have three children, Stephen (predeceased), Kevin & Gail.
He started his career in Nanaimo with BC Hydro in June 1954 and became a lineman in 1958. He temporarily worked as a line supervisor in Port Hardy, BC, before moving with his family to Delta, BC, where he was positioned as the line supervisor for the Metro Vancouver area until he retired in 1987.
After retiring, Ernest spent his time being the greatest Grandfather to his grandchildren Matthew (Vanessa), Jordan (Kim), Aaron (Merilee), Ashley (Jeff), Dylan (Rhiannon), Eric (Kelsey), Emma (Min), Nicole and his great- grandchildren (Chase, Saphira, Lyla, Kennedy, Halle, Reese, Taylor, Eilee & Lennon).
He lived his 34 years of retirement, attending or coaching every practice, game, or recital he could, going on trips with his wife, and creating things in his workshop.
He was a "salt of the earth" type who loved with intention and took pride in caring for his family. He will be remembered for things like; sneaking his grandkid's KitKat bars at every visit, his incredibly detailed stories & his complete devotion and unconditional love for his wife Barbara.