Mitchel Jon Winger, age 64, of Columbia City, and formerly of South Whitley, passed away at 5:55 am on Saturday March 18, 2023, at Parkview Whitley Hospital, Columbia City.  Born on January 1, 1959, in Wabash, he was the son of Joe and Rosie (Lambert) Winger.

Mitch attended Whitko High School and graduated with the Class of 1977.  He then attended Ball State University and graduated with the Class of 1981, with a bachelor’s degree in accounting.  On October 2, 1982, he married Rebecca King in Whitley County.

Mitch worked for the Internal Revenue Service, Whitley Manufacturing, and in 1986 was elected Town Clerk-Treasurer of South Whitley, where he served for 26 years, in addition he owned and operated Winger Trophies from 1983-2020.

Mitch was an avid golfer.  He earned his varsity letter as a junior and senior in high school, and then traveled with the Amateur Golf Association for several years following that.  While at Ball State, he swam a 5 mile marathon as a pool lift fundraiser to help those in need get into and out of the pool safely. Mitch also coached South Whitley Little League Softball for 18 years.

Survivors include his wife Rebecca Winger of Columbia City; children Ryne (Cory) Winger of Fort Wayne and Audra (Brent) Nycz of New York City, NY; grandchildren Avery, Paige, and Aiden; brothers Michael (Debbie) Winger of Columbia City and Matthew (Debbie) Winger of Warsaw; several nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Friends may call on Tuesday March 21, 2023, from 2-4 & 6-8 pm at DeMoney Grimes Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City.

A private graveside service will be held for Mitchel’s family at South Whitley Cemetery, South Whitley.

Visit www.demoneygrimes.com  to send family condolences or to sign the online guest register.