Maj. David E. Winkler

David Elder Winkler, 84, of Evans, GA, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his children, on May 5, 2024 in Augusta, GA.

Funeral service will be held at Platt's Funeral Home located at 337 North Bel Air Road, Evans, GA on Sunday, May 19, 2024 at 3:00 with Pastor John Strickland of Pine Hill Baptist Church officiating.  Visitation will be held from 2:00 to 3:00 prior to the service.

David was born in Indianapolis, IN to Albert and Lois Winkler on July 29, 1939.  He loved the Lord our God, and attended Pine Hill Baptist Church.  He was a loving husband, godly father, and a true gentleman. He had a huge smile, joyful heart, and never met a stranger!

David was a navigator in the United States Air Force, and proudly served his country for 21 years.  He served during the Vietnam War and flew 3,074 combat hours with a career total of 8,396 flying hours.

David enjoyed classic cars, diamond cutting, model planes, and coin collecting. He had an insatiable love of learning.  In the last year he began learning to cook, bake and canning homemade goods.

Brother David was a member and Past Master of George Walton Lodge #699 as well as a member of Martinez Lodge #710. He was also a 10th District Officer and managed the Masonic CHIPS Program.  Georgia's Child Identification Programs (CHIPS) is one of the most comprehensive Child Recovery, Identification, and Abduction Awareness programs ever to be offered to parents in the State of Georgia.  There is an unknown amount of lost or abducted children that were saved due to David's efforts.

David is survived by his wife, Bobbie, son Mark Winkler (Angela Winkler), daughter Sheri Wise (John Wise), and grandsons, Christian Winkler and Nathan Winkler.   He is preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Lois Winkler.