John Joseph Winters

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of John Joseph Winters, who departed this world peacefully on June 11, 2026, after a courageous battle with dementia. Born on April 25, 1945, in the vibrant community of St. Paul, Minnesota, John was the cherished son of Harold and Florence Winters. John’s life was a testament to kindness, love, and dedication to those around him. His early years in St. Paul were filled with the warmth of family and the bonds forged with his brothers, Jim and Ron. He graduated from Cretin High School, where he laid the foundation for a life rooted in community and service. John’s professional journey began at Dannecker’s grocery store, where he spent many years serving his community with a smile and a helping hand. His passion for cars eventually led him to RH Auto Sales, where he worked alongside his dear friend, Rich. John’s career culminated at the James J. Hill Library, a place where his love for learning and community engagement flourished, before he retired to embrace the serene beauty of his lake home in Centuria, Wisconsin. In 1989, John married the love of his life, Patty. Together, they built a life rich with love and adventure, spending cherished moments at their lake home, and later in Florence, Kentucky. Their marriage, which spanned 37 beautiful years, was a testament to enduring love and partnership until Patty’s passing. John was a devoted father to his children, John (Kacy) Winters, Todd (Jody) Winters, and Tricia-beth (Nic) Brown, Laura (Greg) Ripberger, and Sam (Jessica) Rulli. He took immense pride in his family, and his legacy of love and kindness is carried on by his eight grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. His brothers, Jim (Karen) Winters and Ron (Maryann) Winters, along with countless friends, will remember John for his generous spirit and unwavering loyalty. An active member of the Emerald Society in St. Paul, John’s dedication to his community was evident in all he did. He was an avid fisherman, a passionate MN sports fan, and a man who relished time spent with friends and neighbors, always sharing a story and a laugh. John’s warmth and kindness left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He was a man who always placed others before himself, embodying a selflessness that will be fondly remembered by all. A celebration of John’s life will be held at a future date, where friends and family will gather to honor his remarkable journey. The Winters family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Rivers of Life in Eagan for their compassionate care during John’s final days. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to a charity of your choice in John’s memory, as a way to continue his legacy of giving and kindness. John Joseph Winters will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. May he rest in peace, reunited with his beloved Patty and family who have gone before him.