Ron Winkels "Winks”

Ron Winkels, 74, of Somerville, died peacefully on March 2, 2022. Son of the late James and Evelyn Winkels (nee Gregor), Ron was a lifelong resident of Somerville. He was a 1967 graduate of Somerville High School where he lettered in wrestling and football. He went on to work as the Supervisor of Duplicating for Ethicon in Bridgewater, NJ where he spent his career before retiring in 2002. Mr. Winkels dedicated himself to his family. He was a loving husband for 26 years to his wife Kathy and a supportive and involved father to his daughter Katie. He coached softball for 12 years both in recreation and at Somerville High School. Ron spent many years raising pigeons with his father and most recently with his lifelong friend, Joe Petrill, flying out of Madison Street Loft as members of the Bound Brook and Queen City Pigeon Clubs. He was a coin collector, and a passionate fan of Rutgers football and UConn women’s basketball. Most of all, Ron was a devoted grandfather, who adored his grandson. He especially enjoyed the quality time they spent together; whether it be sleepovers, playing chess, taking vacations, or simply chatting over donuts after school, Tyler was the light of his life. Mr. Winkels was preceded in death by his beloved wife Kathleen Winkels (nee Thomas) and his brother Wayne. He is survived by his daughter, Kate Winkels Brittain, his son-in-law Fred, his grandson Tyler, as well as his niece Alisa and nephew Drew. Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 6, 2022, from 1:00 to 5:00PM at Cusick Funeral Home, 80 Mountain Avenue, Somerville. Friends and family are welcome to eulogize his life, beginning at 4:30pm. It is the wishes of the family for all of Ron’s friends to join with them at the Somerville Elks, 375 Union Ave. in Bridgewater for a repast beginning at 5:30pm after the visitation. Memorial contributions can be made in his memory to Somerville High School Athletic Hall of Fame c/o Somerville High School, 222 Davenport Street, Somerville NJ 08876 *Ron Winkels memorial donation in memo line. Tax deductible - EIN#22-3211677