Michael L. Winkel

     Michael L. Winkel, 66 of Hutchinson, Kan. died Sunday, Nov. 12, 2017 at St. Francis Hospital in Wichita.
     Mike was born in peace and love in Concordia, Kan. to Melvin J. and Lucile Winkel Wiles. He was a graduate of Barton County Community College. He married Colleen (Hoch) Sept. 14, 1978. He retired early from the Department of Social Services for the State of Kansas.
     Michael is survived by his spouse, Colleen; father, Bud Wiles of Cawker City, Kan.; children, Jason (Kim) Winkel of Pratt, Kan. and Alexander Winkel, of Ogden, Utah; seven grandchildren and one great-grandson; a brother, Pat (Marion) Winkel of Greenwood, Mo.; sisters Maryellen (Richard) Terry of Council Bluff, Iowa and Janice Myers of Lee’s Summit, Mo.; and nephews and nieces.
     He was preceded in death by his son, Eric, who died in 2013; mother, Lucile Wiles; and sister, Barbara Krien.
        “Mike’s Story”
     He loved doing his own work in his shop on cars, motorcycles and anything mechanical and remodeled his rental houses.
     He was a breath of fresh air, a free spirit, wonderful husband, father, papa, uncle and friend. He loved riding motorcycles and ATVs, showing his Hippie van and camping with his wife, family and friends. He was a leader of the pack, riding hard and free. A great story teller, joker and adventurer. He traveled the United States and Europe. He made a lifetime of memories for all who knew him and will be greatly missed. Ride in Peace and Love, “White Beard.”
     A life celebration for both Mike and Eric is planned for the Spring.
     Although Mike was a “Flower Child,” in lieu of flowers, make memorials to “Pass it Forward” or Prairie Pups Motorcycle Club in care of Old Mission-Heritage Funeral Home.