Joseph Joe Charles Winkler Jr.

Joseph Charles Winkler, Jr., age 83 years, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 10th. He was surrounded by family at his home as he returned to the Lord. Joe is the beloved husband of Bette Ragusa Winkler, father of Joseph C. Winkler III (Susan); Dennis E. Winkler (Kathy), Wayne D. Winkler (Kerry), and Sandra Winkler Braniff (Perry). Joe, a native of New Orleans, is preceded in death by his father, Joseph C. Winkler, Sr. and mother, Annie Bose Winkler, as well as sisters Josephine Winkler Wortman, Anna Winkler Thames, Rita Winkler Roberts, and Barbara Winkler, and brother, Jacob Winkler. Grampee’s greatest pleasure was “spoiling” his grandchildren: Adam M. Winkler, Joseph C. Winkler IV, Christine Winkler Rainey, Ross M. Winkler, Brian J. Winkler, Perry Braniff, Jr., Danielle Braniff, and great grandchild Nyla Tate. He is also survived by 26 nieces and nephews. Joe grew up in “Little Woods” in eastern New Orleans where he hunted, fished and crabbed, and enjoyed New Orleans outdoors, culture and Lake Pontchartrain seafood. He was a proud graduate of Warren Easton High School in New Orleans. He was employed by Boh Bros. Construction Co., and like his father before him, earned his way to Superintendent, retiring in 1991 at age 60. He fondly remembered his fellow workers and often would visit and tell stories. Joe was a little league coach and helped build youth league parks. Nothing satisfied him more than teaching a young boy to throw a ball, toss a fishing line or bait a hook – his own children, grandchildren, and nieces and nephews and friends alike. While Joe will be greatly missed by his family and friends, he left a lasting legacy and many cherished memories. Relatives and friends are invited to join the family in a celebration of Joe’s life. A funeral mass will be held at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd., New Orleans, LA on Thursday, December 18, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will begin on Wednesday evening from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and on Thursday morning from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow in Metairie Cemetery. To view and sign the family guestbook, please visit www.lakelawnmetairie.com