Orville Eugene VanWinkle

Orville Eugene VanWinkle, 79, of Chanute, Kansas, passed away at his home on October 10, 2024. He was born on July 8, 1945, in Berryville, Arkansas, to Orville and Cordia (Strahan) VanWinkle.

Eugene graduated from Chanute High School in 1965, served in the Army National Guard, and was a member of the Chanute American Legion. His career as a draftsman spanned forty years as he loved math and problem-solving. Other interests included fishing and archery hunting. Known for his dry wit, his sense of humor and creative storytelling were never far away. Those closest to him will fondly remember a frequent quip was “I am a very exciting fellow”, bringing a smile to anyone within hearing distance. His generosity to family, friends, and those in need was well-known. Memories of his kind gestures and entertaining stories, many including Dude, his canine companion of many years, will forever be generational blessings to those who remember him. 

On November 30, 1968, Eugene was united in marriage to Christina (Turley) VanWinkle. They had two sons, Rodney, who preceded him in death on April 17, 2020, and Trevis, Topeka, Kansas.

In addition to son Trevis, he is survived by siblings Colene Davidson, Hazel McGee, Wilbur VanWinkle and Larry VanWinkle all of Chanute, KS, Wanda Van Winkle, Oklahoma City, OK, and Lora West, Prescott, KS. Two sisters, Carolyn Norman and Wilma Leroy preceded him in death.

He cared deeply for his family which included grandchildren Holly, Faith, Dillon, Tyler, Brittani, Kylie, and Xandria, six great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. 

A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date.