Melvin "Mickey" Winters, a man who could light up a room with his humor and who lived a life as vibrant as his personality, passed away on August 12, 2024, in Coldwater, MI. Born on October 14, 1950, in Berea, OH, Mickey embraced life with gusto, a twinkle in his eye, and a joke always at the ready.

Mickey was the beloved son of Nelson Winters and Velenthol (Chrislip) Winters Everhart, and though they predeceased him, their legacy lived on through his laughter. His life was a tapestry woven with the love of his family, including his divorced wife and mother of his children, Kathleen Ann Winters, who had passed before him; his sister Marcy (Barry) Caldwell, and his little brother David Winters. He was preceded in death by his sister Valorie (Jim) Tufano, but the bond they shared was unbreakable, even in memory.

Mickey was a proud father to Brandi (Josh) Smoker and Jesse Henkaline, and a doting grandfather to Blake and Jaxon Smoker, who were the apples of his eye. He also cherished his son Jeff (Ruth) Henkaline and their shared moments. Each family member played a unique note in the symphony of his life, creating a melody of love, laughter, and memories. His special friend Nolan Wages remained a steadfast companion until the very end, proving that some friendships truly are eternal.

Educationally, Mickey graduated from Fairview High School in Fairborn, Ohio, and attended Ohio State University. His studies, however, took a backseat when he was drafted to Vietnam on October 16, 1969. He served his country with valor, earning an array of medals including the National Defense Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Air Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Two Overseas Bars. Not to mention, he was a sharpshooter with an M16, though he'd jokingly claim his real weapon was his sharp wit.

Upon receiving an honorable discharge on October 10, 1972, Mickey transitioned to civilian life moving to Bronson, MI in 1984. Later working at Bronson Plastics, Millers Hardware and Geiger Manufacturing in Bronson, MI. He was the kind of colleague who knew that a good laugh could turn a double shift into a double feature of fun.

Mickey was a man who loved deeply and often. His family and friends were his world, with grandsons Blake and Jaxon holding a special place in his heart. He was the master of "STUPERVISING" his sons Jesse and Josh, ensuring that everything was done just right—or at least, with a good dose of humor. His porch visits at Josh and Brandi's house were legendary, filled with stories that would make you laugh until you cried, and then laugh some more.

Generous, selfless, and intelligent are words that only begin to scratch the surface of who Mickey was. He would give you the shirt off his back. His intelligence was not just book-smart but life-smart, the kind of wisdom that knew the value of a good joke and the importance of being there for one another.

Mickey's absence will leave a void that can't be filled, but his spirit will live on in every chuckle, and snicker he inspired. Mickey may have left the stage, but his one-liners, his generosity of spirit, and his love for his family and friends will ensure an encore in our hearts forever.

So, let's raise a glass to Melvin "Mickey" Winters, a man who lived by the words "GRACE & DIGNITY" the last few years of his life.