Rolf Winte

Rolf Winte, 88, son, husband, father, baker, car aficionado, and dapper dresser, peacefully passed away with his loving wife, Lilian of 64 years, by his side at their home in Hampstead, North Carolina on the 27th of September.

Rolf, son of ÅÅke and Gerda Winte, was born on June 25, 1935 in Sala, Sweden, the third of seven children. After receiving his education and serving his mandatory Swedish military service at Uppsala Flygvapen, Rolf began working for the postal service in Västerås.

It was in Västeråås where he became smitten with his lovely Lilian. Their love story began in April 1957. By Christmas Eve 1957 the young couple was engaged. They married in the summer of 1959 on one of the most joyous Swedish holidays, Midsummer. In the fall of 1960 with green cards in hand, the young couple voyaged to the United States with full hearts and big dreams.

Having settled in the United States, they welcomed their son Thomas and daughter Kristina. Rolf’s strength of character and independent spirit is reflected in the many accomplishments and warmhearted nature of his children.

Rolf built a storied career as a baker. His baking skills were bolstered by his serious and focused nature that allowed him to hone his craft. He was as adept at creating elaborate wedding cakes as he was at making both traditional Swedish pastries and sought after American baked goods. He achieved the “American dream” of owning his own business when he and Lilian bought a bakery in Brigantine, New Jersey in 1974. They named their bakery, Three Crowns Bakery, in honor of their homeland.

The bakery was a family affair. Lilian greeted customers in her congenial and gentle manner. Rolf crafted exceptional baked goods that were nothing short of delicious. Their kids Thomas and Kristina grew up lending their hands in the bakery too, albeit some days begrudgingly as teenagers are wont to do. Brigantine and the bakery was his family home and both were as warm and inviting as they are.

While in Brigantine, Rolf and Lilian raised their children, made many life-long friends, were magnificent hosts to their global extended family, and were valued members of the Island’s community.

In 1998, Brigantine’s mayor issued a proclamation for Rolf and Lilian. The proclamation honored Three Crowns Bakery for its quality baked goods and Rolf and Lilian for their social and civic service to the Island. After 24 years of service to Brigantine, Rolf and Lilian settled in Hampstead, North Carolina to peacefully enjoy life without the supremely early hours of a baker.

During his time in Hampstead, Rolf built close relationships with a large group of friends and enjoyed the freedom of retirement. Most days he could be found tending to his garden, playing golf or watching ice hockey and soccer on tv.

Rolf was known for his strong Swedish stature, impeccable sartorial choices, and love for his family. He balanced his serious and driven nature with a joie de vivre that included his clever Swedish brand of humor, traits that he shared with his father, Åke. A lifelong dog lover, Rolf had many loyal companions throughout his life including cheerful golden retrievers to the affectionate companionship of pugs.

Rolf is survived by his devoted wife Lilian; son Thomas and his wife Kathleen of Maryland; granddaughters Kristen and Maria; daughter Kristina and her husband Steve of Florida; grandsons Leo and Dean; sister-in-law Britt Winte of Pennsylvania; brother Benny Winte and wife Claudia of Sweden; brother Jan Winte and wife Birgitta of Sweden; Bjöörn Winte and wife Lena of Sweden; sister ÅÅsa Johnson and husband Mike of Reno, Nevada; and numerous nieces and nephews across the globe.

Rolf is preceded in death by his parents, Åke and Gerda; brother Alf Winte; and sister Ingalil Leopold.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 22, 2023 10:00am at the Hampstead United Methodist Church 15395 Hwy 17, Hampstead, NC 28443. Service will follow at 11:00am.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Rolf Winte’s name to the Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Hospice 1414 Physicians Dr Wilmington NC 28401I or a church of your choice.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.CobleGreenlawn.com for the Winte family.