John D. Winter

John Derwood Winter, a resident of Breeze Park Senior Living Center in Weldon Springs, MO, passed away February 16, 2025 at the age of 93. He was the devoted husband of Ruth, and loving father of Jeff Winter (Patrice) and Scott Winter (Lisa). He was also the loving grandfather of 7 grandchildren (Benjamin, Thomas, Caleb, Garrett, Colleen, Ingrid, Philip), and 5 great grandchildren (Jilian, Lillian, Albert, Leo, Ottilie). He was proceeded in death by his wife of 68 years, Ruth Winter (Grau), and his older brothers, Arban, Oliver, and William, and is survived by his younger brother Glen.

John spent his life in the God given vocation of husband, father, grandfather and provider to his family. John was a faithful member of Zion Lutheran Harvester. He served as an usher, elder, and congregational president. He also served on the sausage supper committee, and attended the ACTS weekly Bible class.

John Derwood Winter was born on a farm near Truxton, MO. He grew up on the “Winter home place” of Martin (father) and Bertha (mother) east of Truxton on highway A. He attended grade school in Truxton and graduated from Warrenton High School. Life on the farm forever shaped John - when his two older brothers left home in the early stages of World War Two, young John (nine) had to assume more responsibilities. This work ethic undergirded John his entire life. John also developed his love of fishing on the banks of Camp Creek which flowed through the farm. He also taught his sons the joy of fishing there.

John served his country during the Korean War era in the Army and was stationed in San Francisco California, and worked on NIKE missile site maintenance. After leaving the Army, John attended Ranken Technical School and obtained an electrical technician degree. After proposing to and marring the love of his life (Ruth), he accepted a position in Los Angeles, California at Hughs Aircraft in 1957. Both Jeff and Scott were born in California. The family returned to Missouri in 1964 and John was employed at McDonnell Douglas, working there over 30 years.

John’s love of the outdoors and tending the land continued throughout his life. John and Ruth always had a large garden. In additional to his own home and yard, John cared for Ruth’s mom’s property/farm for many years. After retiring, John was often in the yard gardening, mowing, or maintaining the lawn (when not trout fishing at Meramec Springs State Park).

John was baptized at Zion Methodist Church of Truxton. He married Ruth on August 31st, 1956. He was confirmed into the Lutheran faith at Zion Harvester on December 16, 1956 and attended Zion Lutheran continuously from 1964 until the present. John reflected Jesus’ love in his faithful dedication and service to family, church, and work.

John’s confirmation verse is 2 Timothy 3:14 - “But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing from whom thou hast learned them”.

John's Church family and his Church life was very important to him, if you prefer, the family would be honored if you would consider a donation to Zion Lutheran Church or the Zion Lutheran Church School in his honor. To contact the Church please click here.