John Ernest Winter, 72 of West Union, Iowa passed away Saturday, June 27, 2026 at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. John was born April 18, 1954 to Donald and Lois (Reichert) Winter in West Union, Iowa. He graduated from North High School in 1972 and NICC in 1974 with an Associate’s Degree in Farm Management.
On August 7, 1982, John married the love of his life, Marsha Renee Halse. Together they built a life centered on faith, family and service to their community. He was a loving Dad whose children meant the world to him. John was a lifelong member of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Eldorado, living his faith through kindness, generosity and willingness to lend a helping hand.
John grew up on the family farm and continued to work it with his father and brother until 1985. He then started his 25-year career testing dairy herds, building lasting friendships with farm families he served. Deeply committed to his community, John was an active supporter of the Fayette County Fair, 4-H, and FFA. He also served on the Dairy Promotion Committee encouraging and supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders. His friendly, dependable nature, and genuine care for others earned him the respect and admiration of many.
John was an avid Roy Rogers fan since youth. His life-long love of the Dallas Cowboys was evident to all who knew him. John also cheered on Iowa State, especially when they played the Hawkeyes. John enjoyed being with people, attending daily coffee groups and community events.
John battled his many health demons with strength and courage, always pushing forward. He is survived by his wife, Marsha, two of his children, Jamie and Emily; siblings, Marsha Ruby and Dean (Kim) Winter; parents-in-law, Phil and Evelyn Halse; in-laws, Michael (Denise) Halse and Michelle (Phil) Jennings; aunt, Jean Dickman; and many nieces and nephews.
Preceding John in death were his parents, Donald and Lois Winter; and his daughter, Sara Winter in 1985.
A Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home in West Union, Iowa. There will be no visitation before the service at the church on Thursday, we ask that you come and be seated.
A Funeral Service will be at 10:30 am on Thursday, July 2, 2026 at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Eldorado, Iowa with Pastor Beth Hurst as the officiant.
Burial will follow at St. Peter Lutheran Cemetery in Eldorado, Iowa.
Burnham-Wood-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of West Union, Iowa is assisting the family with services.