Gary Winder

Gary Long Winder

May 14, 1938 – June 15, 2024

On the evening of June 15, 2024, Gary Winder passed away peacefully from complications related to diabetes and vascular dementia. Surrounded by family members, Hospice, and the dedicated staff at Bethel Pointe Health and Rehabilitation Center in Muncie, Indiana, Gary was comforted until his final moments. He was 86 years old.

Gary Winder was born on May 14, 1938 in Muncie, Indiana as the fourth child of Edward Dallas and Virginia Long Winder. He grew up in Hartford City, where he met his wife, Jane Cale, as a preschooler at the Helen Lieber School. Gary’s lifelong enjoyment of the outdoors began at age seven, attending summer camp annually. In high school, he served as the captain of the Hartford City Airedales football team.

After graduation, Gary enlisted in the US Marine Corps, where he was stationed overseas as an Antitank Assaultman. He was honorably discharged after three years, earning a Good Conduct Medal, and spent an additional three years in the Marine Reserves. Upon returning to Hartford City, he worked as a dedicated employee of General Motors and retired after thirty-one years.

Gary married the love of his life, Jane Cale, on January 21, 1961, at Grace United Methodist Church. They settled in Hartford City, where they raised their two children, Bruce and Marti. An avid outdoorsman, Gary was often accompanied by one of his loyal sporting dogs. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, running, cycling, swimming, and camping. Some of Gary’s closest friends were his hunting and fishing companions, including his son Bruce. Gary and Jane enjoyed many adventures and family vacations across the country and Europe, stopping along the way to catch up with old friends and relatives near and far. After participating in triathlons, Gary became a USA triathlon official for a number of years, inspiring his daughter Marti to become a triathlete as well. He was actively involved in his children’s and grandchildren’s lives, attending their significant milestones, and always proud of their achievements. Gary often encouraged hard work for success and strong relationships in order to achieve happiness.

A steadfast member of the Hartford City community, Gary was committed to giving back. He was a friend, helper, and mentor to many, and a positive influence on young Marines over the years. He often volunteered to help friends and relatives with home repairs, transport to appointments, and provided support during times of crisis. Alongside Jane, he assisted and mentored young children in the Kids Hope USA program.

He was preceded in death by his parents Edward and Virginia Winder, his brother Tom Winder, his sister Nadine Winder, and his nephew Scott Winder. He was survived by his wife of sixty-three years, Jane Winder, until July 4th, 2024. He is survived by his son Bruce Winder, daughter Marti (Tim) Brookie, grandchildren Chelsea (Paul) Aamold, Madelyn (Wyatt) Shults, Cale Winder, Amanda (Luke) McDonald, Monica Brookie, great grandchildren Roxann and Annie Perez, Charlotte Aamold, Willow Shults, and Emerson McDonald. Gary is also survived by his brother Ron Winder. 

A celebration of Gary Winder's life will be held at Grace Methodist Church at 312 W Washington St, Hartford City, IN on August 3rd at 10:30 am, followed by a luncheon in Fellowship Hall.

The family extends special thanks to the supportive community of Hartford city, The Blackford County Veteran’s Affairs, and the medical professionals who make a difference in all our lives. 

Donations in Gary Winder’s memory can be made to: The American Diabetes Association https://diabetes.org/ways-to-give/in-honor-gift

or Grace Methodist Church: 312 W Washington St, Hartford City, IN 47348, https://gracesunday.org/ 

“I have tried to live my life so that my family would love me and my friends respect me. The others can do whatever the hell they please” -John Wayne

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gary Winder, please visit our floral store.