Mark Robert Winkel

     Mark “Wink” Winkel, 59, of Forestville passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, November 3, 2022. Wink was an avid outdoorsman who found the most peace and solace when he was part of nature fishing and hunting. He looked forward all year to the holy month of November which he spent in Northern Wisconsin. It brings his family solace knowing that he left this earth spending time in the place he loved most. When he wasn’t deer hunting, Wink could be found fly fishing in the Driftless Area of Southwestern Wisconsin or braving the cold ice fishing.

     Born in Ashland, Wisconsin on May 10, 1963, Wink always had dreams of moving back north of Highway 8. In his early years, the family moved to New London, Wisconsin where he attended schooling at Precious Blood Elementary School and New London public schools. After graduating high school, he attended the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and acquired a degree in Natural Resources with a law enforcement emphasis.

     Between his dedication to his studies, participating in the Army ROTC program, carousing with his Siasefi brothers, and his lifelong appreciation of Susan Lucci, he somehow found time to meet the real love of his life, Joan. He went on to build a life with her, raising two very lucky children in an incredibly loving and supportive home.

     Wink dedicated his life to public service earning a commission as an Army Officer on May 19,1985 where he served in the National Guard while also beginning his 32-year career as an investigator and law enforcement officer with the Door County Sheriff's Department. Throughout his career, he expressed genuine fulfilment and sense of purpose in both his work and the relationships established through his time in the force. Though he retired from full-time service in April of 2018, his passion kept him close, working as a Special Deputy whenever needed.

     He is survived by his loving wife Joan (Ludwig); son Nick (Amanda Krebsbach) and three grandchildren; daughter Madeline (Chris Aalid); and parents Robert and Jocelyn. He will also be missed by many aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws, nieces, and nephews, and hunting and fishing friends.

     Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday November 12, 2022, at Huehns Funeral Home in Sturgeon Bay with Fr. Anthony Birdsall officiating. Friends may call Saturday at Huehns Funeral Home from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 1:30 p.m. County Sherriff honors will follow the service.

      A memorial scholarship fund will be established in Mark’s name at Sturgeon Bay High School for those planning on entering Forestry service or police science. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Mark may be shared with his family through his tribute page at www.huehnsfuneralhome.com.

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