Obituary of Craig D Winther

Craig Douglas Winther was born to Raymond Laverne and Norma Auguste (Nelsen) Winther on May 29, 1954, his father’s birthday. Older sister Mary “Suz” and older brothers Raymond (Cody) and Mark welcomed Craig home. Sisters Debra “Chris” and Denice later completed the family.

Craig was raised on a farm east of Morton Mills, where he developed a passion for all things boy and all things farm. Craig was a member of the Strand Evangelical Lutheran Church, where later in life, he served the congregation as president of the church.

After losing their mother, Norma, in a tragic car accident in 1960, Craig, Denice, Mark, and Chris spent much time at their Aunt Mabel’s home in Atlantic, Iowa. Family was very important to Craig, and he grew up with a strong bond with many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Craig also spent time with the Wolfe family at the Wolfe Funeral Home and had many great stories and memories to share.

On April 16, 1979, Craig was united in marriage to Kimberly “Kim” Kay Ramsey. To this union, they had three children: Norma Rae, Garrett Alan, and Malorie LeAnn.

Craig worked as a salesman at Eno Furniture Store in Villisca, Iowa until the store closed. He then worked at D&L, a factory in Red Oak, Iowa until 1988 when he was injured at work. At that time, Craig was no longer able to work due to his injury. However, this did not stop Craig from being active. Craig and Kim did many things for the youth in the Villisca community, including renting the swimming pool for a pool party, so anyone could come to swim free of charge. This party also included door prizes and a free DJ. Craig and Kim also opened a teen center called The Blue Jay Perch where they served food and snacks and welcomed all to play the jukebox, pool, air hockey, or foosball.

At home, Craig raised all sorts of animals on their hobby farm. Craig has raised dogs, horses, chickens, and hogs at various different times throughout his life.

Craig was a social butterfly and did not shy away from being the life of the party. He had an enormous heart and a love for all. Craig did not know a stranger and would not hesitate to help someone in need. Craig loved big, and his grandchildren meant the world to him. He was always ready for a visit.

On September 18, 2024, Craig took his last breath with Norma, Garrett, and Malorie by his side. Preceding him in death were his parents, Raymond Laverne and Norma Auguste Winther; an infant brother, Warren Lee Winther; his nephew, Layne Eno Comes; his sister, Denice Comes; his brother, Mark Winther; his sister, Mary Buick; and his nephew, Irvin Lehman.

Craig leaves behind his daughter and family, Norma, Adrian, and grandson, Avery Wolfe, of Kellerton, Iowa; son and family, Garrett, Tanaya, and grandson, Kash Winther of Allendale, Missouri; granddaughter Ray Lee of Corning, Iowa; and daughter and family, Malorie, Quentin and grand pups, Marley and Bo Sickels of Villisca, Iowa. Also left to cherish his memory are siblings, Raymond (Cody) Winther of Villisca, Iowa, and Debra “Chris” (Marvin) Shipley of Tenville, Iowa, along with many other nieces, nephews, loved ones, and friends.