William A. "Pete" Van Winkle

William A. “Pete” Van Winkle, 83, passed away August 3, 2022, at his home surrounded by those who loved him most in Alamogordo, New Mexico. He was a true family man and a real-life hero. He lived his life as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and a great friend to anyone who met him. Pete’s memory will be cherished by everyone who was given the chance to know and love him.

Pete was born November 16, 1938, to Earl and Annie Van Winkle in Weed, NM. He went to school in Weed where he graduated in 1957. He later met the love of his life, Marian, on October 5, 1957, at Hillbilly Heaven and as Toto says, “the rest is history”. They married on June 20, 1959, in Loving, NM. They started their life here in Alamogordo, living in Albuquerque and Ruidoso some time, making the full circle back to Alamogordo again in 2007. During that time, they had three children, Cindy, Craig, and Kimber.

Pete was a plumbing and heating contractor while they lived in Ruidoso, NM where he later retired in 2000. He loved tinkering in his shop and woodworking. He was an avid outdoorsman, he loved hunting and fishing. One of the greatest highlights of his life was taking all his kids and grandkids hunting and fishing. It was always a family affair. 

Pete is survived by his wife, Marian and their three children Cindy (J.R), Craig (Sherry), and Kimber (Ashley). His five grandsons Raif (Shana), Cory (Jaclyn), Chance (Brandi), Tyler (Ashley), and Jayton. He was blessed with 6 great grandchildren, Warrick, Shaeleigh, Hayden, Arya, Claira, and Dixie; brother, Dan Ogden and sister, Margie Mitchell (Joel) and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Annie Van Winkle; his three sisters and two brothers, Liz, Eppie, Barbara, Jake, and Earl. 

Pete and Marian shared 63 wonderful years together. Their philosophy has always been "do not grieve for what you don’t have but be thankful for what you have had".  

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm, Thursday, August 11, 2022 at Alamogordo Funeral Home in Alamogordo, NM with Pastor Ron Lowrance officiating. A small reception will take place following the service at Scenic Chapel in Alamogordo, NM.

The Van Winkle family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Alamogordo Funeral Home to direct the services.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you donate to your favorite charity.

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